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ENG 102 - The Tempest and Trifles

2. Explore Your Topic

After thoroughly examining your assignment, now it's time to look for some initial background or starting information on your play. If you are doing research on Trifles, click the link for Drama for Students. If you are doing research on The Tempest, click on the link for Shakespeare for Students.

Analyze Your Play

Questions to Ask Yourself

Magnifying Glass

When and where did the play take place? (place and time)

What is the atmosphere? (historical / sociological)

How is the play told? (narrative / point of view)

What language is used? (style, tone, and irony)

Who are the main characters? (protagonist / antagonist / others)

Are there symbols used? (symbols)

How does the plot help the reader understand the theme?

What is the dramatic moment? What is the conflict?

What is the moment of climax? (turning point / illumination / understanding)

How does the play end? (resolution)