ChatGPT rewrote an essay for me. The ideas, quotes and paragraphs are exactly the same, but words have been changed to avoid plagiarism. Annoyingly, it has also changed the precise wording of the quotes.
But, you can use this to see how a top grade Tempest essay is put together.
Shakespeare illustrates Ferdinand and Miranda's amorous bond as one characterized by profound affection and fervor, yet also tinged with innocence; Shakespeare delves into the potency of affection through their connection while also examining how such romantic entanglements can be manipulated.
At this juncture in the drama, Miranda professes her affection for Ferdinand, asserting she 'would desire no companion in the universe but you.' Shakespeare endeavors to depict the profoundness and fervency of Miranda's sentiment for Ferdinand through this exaggerated expression that profoundly affects the audience. Shakespeare's intent in presenting their romantic liaison in this manner is to evoke emotion and passion from the Jacobean spectators, as he possibly believed in the significance and supremacy of affection, positing it as perhaps the sole enduring form of power, hence his choice to have Miranda and Ferdinand converse in verse, symbolizing their enduring devotion. Shakespeare also aimed for the Jacobean audience to partake in Miranda and Ferdinand's love—a sentiment that remains relevant to contemporary audiences, as Shakespeare's discourse on love transcends time.
Shakespeare explores the notion of love at first sight in this passage through the romantic entanglement between Miranda and Ferdinand. 'The very moment I laid eyes on you.' This excerpt from Ferdinand underscores the intensity of their affection, yet also their innocence. Shakespeare may be endeavoring to illustrate how the innocence inherent in a youthful liaison like theirs might blind them to each other's true essence; Shakespeare implies that initial impressions are not definitive and that true understanding necessitates deeper acquaintance.
In the Jacobean era, when Shakespeare scripted his works, hasty and youthful marriages were commonplace; Shakespeare could be subtly suggesting that precipitous unions, lacking genuine understanding (akin to Ferdinand and Miranda's), could yield adverse consequences. This notion might resonate more strongly with contemporary audiences than with Jacobean ones, as modern individuals are less inclined to rush into serious relationships and tend to deliberate more thoroughly due to the diminished societal pressure to marry promptly, as was prevalent in Jacobean times.
Throughout the narrative, Shakespeare elucidates the concept of 'demonstrating one's affection' via Miranda and Ferdinand's romantic liaison, employing Prospero as a figure who manipulates and orchestrates their relationship. One method he employs is compelling Ferdinand to undertake arduous tasks, such as bearing a 'burden of logs.' Shakespeare might be spotlighting to his audience that, in Jacobean society, individuals (predominantly men) maintained extramarital affairs and exhibited lesser commitment to their spouses, leading to discontent. Shakespeare sought to challenge this norm, championing love as a sacred and venerable entity that should not be taken for granted. This notion captivates the audience with its timeless appeal and underscores the value of genuine affection.
Shakespeare portrays the exploitation of Miranda and Ferdinand's romantic bond for political gains by Prospero throughout the play. Prospero engineers their relationship to deepen, thereby consolidating his control over Ferdinand—who is the son of Alonso, the King of Napier. Prospero apologizes to Ferdinand for his harsh treatment but asserts that his 'recompense compensates'—meaning Miranda is his offering. However, it is Prospero who also benefits, gaining a son-in-law who is a prince, thereby enhancing his wealth and influence.
Shakespeare highlights how, particularly in Jacobean times, innocent relationships were manipulated and leveraged for political or financial advantage or to forge alliances. Shakespeare may be suggesting to his audience that such manipulation is unethical and that pure romantic liaisons between two individuals should be cherished, not exploited—a notion that would have minimal impact on a Jacobean audience, accustomed to such practices, but could provoke indignation or dismay in modern audiences, who value love for its authenticity rather than its utility.
In conclusion, Shakespeare presents the romantic union of Miranda and Ferdinand as one suffused with profound and fervent affection, illustrating the potency of love while also shedding light on the innocence of youth and the societal pressures and yearnings for love and marriage, particularly prevalent in Jacobean times.
23 marks (24 is a grade 8)
Examiner’s Comment
The essay exhibits a thorough understanding of the themes presented in the text and effectively addresses the essay prompt.
The writer utilizes their knowledge of the play to select pertinent moments from various parts of the text, supporting their analysis effectively.
They demonstrate insight into the nuances of Ferdinand and Miranda's relationship, highlighting both its depth of emotion and its naivety.
Additionally, the essay explores the concept of love's power and its susceptibility to manipulation within romantic relationships.
While the writer effectively develops these ideas, there could be further emphasis on the author's intent and the creation of meaning within the text.
Nevertheless, the explanation of the effects of literary techniques in relation to the central ideas is well-articulated and contributes to a thoughtful analysis overall.
How to Get Full Marks (Advice from ChatGPT)
To achieve a score of 30, the student could enhance their essay by incorporating the following elements:
Deeper Analysis of Literary Techniques: While the student briefly mentions Shakespeare's use of verse for Miranda and Ferdinand's dialogue to showcase their undying love, they could delve deeper into how Shakespeare's language choices contribute to the portrayal of love in the play. They could analyze specific poetic devices such as metaphor, imagery, and symbolism employed by Shakespeare to convey the intensity of emotions between the characters.
Exploration of Character Development: The essay focuses primarily on the dynamics of Ferdinand and Miranda's relationship, but it could benefit from a deeper exploration of character development, particularly regarding Prospero. Analyzing Prospero's motivations and evolution throughout the play, especially in relation to his manipulation of the romantic relationship between Ferdinand and Miranda, would add complexity to the essay's argument.
Comparative Analysis with Other Works: To broaden the scope of the analysis, the student could compare Shakespeare's portrayal of love in "The Tempest" with his treatment of the theme in other plays or works of literature. By drawing parallels or contrasts with different texts, the student can offer a more comprehensive understanding of Shakespeare's exploration of love across his body of work.
Evaluation of Historical and Cultural Context: While the essay briefly mentions Jacobean societal norms regarding marriage and relationships, the student could further evaluate the historical and cultural context in which the play was written. Exploring how Shakespeare's portrayal of love reflects or challenges the values and beliefs of his time period would deepen the analysis and provide valuable insight into the play's significance.
Consideration of Critical Perspectives: Incorporating critical perspectives or scholarly interpretations of "The Tempest" and its portrayal of love would enrich the essay's analysis. By engaging with academic discourse on the play, the student can demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the text and present a well-rounded argument supported by scholarly evidence.
By incorporating these elements into their essay, the student can elevate their analysis and provide a more comprehensive exploration of Shakespeare's portrayal of love in "The Tempest," thereby potentially achieving a higher score of 30.
I asked ChatGPT to give examples of each of those 5
Certainly! Here are examples of how the student could incorporate each of the suggested elements into their essay:
Deeper Analysis of Literary Techniques:
"Shakespeare's use of metaphor and imagery in Miranda's declaration of love, such as comparing Ferdinand to the only companion she desires in the world, elevates their relationship to a celestial level. The imagery of exclusivity and unity, combined with the hyperbolic language, underscores the profundity of their bond."
"Furthermore, Shakespeare employs symbolism through the recurring motif of the island's enchanting sounds and sweet airs, which serve as a metaphor for the transformative power of love. This imagery not only enhances the ethereal atmosphere of the play but also reflects the enchantment and wonder experienced by the characters upon falling in love."
Exploration of Character Development:
"While Ferdinand and Miranda's love story forms the central focus of the play, it is imperative to consider the character of Prospero and his role in shaping their relationship. Prospero's journey from a vengeful sorcerer to a remorseful father figure underscores the complexities of love and forgiveness in the play."
"Moreover, Prospero's manipulation of Ferdinand and Miranda's romance serves as a catalyst for his own personal growth and redemption. His realization of the folly of his actions and the ultimate forgiveness he extends to Ferdinand and Miranda reveal the transformative power of love to heal and reconcile."
Comparative Analysis with Other Works:
"In contrast to his treatment of love in 'Romeo and Juliet,' where love leads to tragic consequences, Shakespeare presents a more optimistic view of love in 'The Tempest.' While still acknowledging its complexities and pitfalls, Shakespeare ultimately celebrates love as a force for reconciliation and renewal."
"Furthermore, Shakespeare's portrayal of love in 'The Tempest' echoes themes found in other late romances, such as 'A Winter's Tale' and 'Cymbeline,' where love triumphs over adversity and brings about redemption for the characters."
Evaluation of Historical and Cultural Context:
"By examining the societal norms and expectations surrounding marriage and relationships in Jacobean England, we gain insight into the broader cultural context in which Shakespeare's play was written. The prevalence of arranged marriages and the pressure to marry for social and political gain shed light on Ferdinand and Miranda's hasty union and Prospero's manipulation of their relationship."
"Moreover, Shakespeare's exploration of love in 'The Tempest' reflects the shifting attitudes towards love and marriage during the early modern period, as society moved towards a more individualistic and romanticized view of relationships."
Consideration of Critical Perspectives:
"Scholarly interpretations of 'The Tempest,' such as those by Stephen Greenblatt and Marjorie Garber, offer valuable insights into Shakespeare's portrayal of love and its significance within the play. Greenblatt's analysis of the play's colonial and post-colonial themes, for instance, highlights the complexities of power dynamics and their impact on relationships."
"Furthermore, Garber's exploration of gender and sexuality in 'The Tempest' sheds light on the subversive elements of Shakespeare's portrayal of love, particularly in relation to Miranda's agency and autonomy within her romantic relationship."
By incorporating these examples into their essay, the student can enrich their analysis and provide a more comprehensive exploration of Shakespeare's portrayal of love in "The Tempest," potentially achieving a higher score of 30.
I Asked for Examples of What those Critics Might Say
Here are hypothetical examples of what Stephen Greenblatt and Marjorie Garber might say in their scholarly interpretations of "The Tempest":
Stephen Greenblatt:
"In my analysis of 'The Tempest,' I argue that Shakespeare uses the setting of the island and the relationship between Prospero and Caliban to explore themes of colonialism and power. The dynamic between the colonizer and the colonized mirrors the power dynamics within romantic relationships, highlighting the ways in which power can shape and influence love."
"By examining the character of Prospero as a colonial ruler and Caliban as a marginalized subject, we can better understand the complexities of love and power in the play. The unequal distribution of power on the island mirrors the unequal distribution of power within romantic relationships, complicating notions of agency and autonomy."
Marjorie Garber:
"In my exploration of gender and sexuality in 'The Tempest,' I argue that Shakespeare challenges traditional gender roles and expectations through the character of Miranda. Miranda's agency and autonomy within her romantic relationship with Ferdinand defy patriarchal norms, suggesting that love can be a subversive force against oppressive structures."
"Through Miranda's assertiveness and independence, Shakespeare disrupts conventional ideas of femininity and romance, presenting a more progressive and egalitarian vision of love. Miranda's refusal to be passive or submissive in her relationship with Ferdinand underscores the subversive potential of love to challenge and reshape societal norms."
These give us alternative interpretations. Writing about these will always get you grades 8 and 9 - so long as you justify which view you prefer.