Comedy Quotes in The Tempest Flashcards

Comedy in The Tempest

• Trinculo refers to Caliban as a monster, suggesting that encountering such a being could redefine what it means to be human.
• Trinculo observes social indifference, contrasting people's willingness to pay to witness death over helping those in need.
• Trinculo's reference to creeping under Caliban’s gaberdine implies a humorous evasion of authority or the absurdity of their situation.
• The saying "misery acquaints a man with strange bed-fellows" highlights the unpredictability of companionship in difficult times.
• Stephano recalls his affection for a group of women, illustrating a comedic indulgence in his past relationships.
• Stephano describes a woman with "a tongue with a tang," implying lively or sharp conversation that adds to the dark humor of the play.
• Stephano offers a bottle, claiming it will provide language, humorously suggesting that liquor inspires eloquence or wisdom.
• Caliban expresses reverence for the drink Stephano offers, perceiving it as divine, showcasing his comedic worship of alcohol as a life force.
• The phrase "swear by this bottle" plays into themes of loyalty and dependence, with humor rooted in drunken camaraderie.
• "Kiss the book" parodies formal oaths, merging solemnity with humorous, irreverent behavior.
• Caliban's promise to show every fertile inch of the island reflects both grandeur and folly, as he desires to impress his new companions.
• Caliban's plea for Stephano to be his God emphasizes themes of power dynamics, with dark humor underscoring his subservience.
• Caliban's willingness to kiss Stephano's foot signifies the absurdity of his newfound veneration, portraying a mock-serious relationship.
• The chant "ban ban cacaliban" humorously expresses Caliban's transformation from servitude to possessiveness, reflecting comedic irony in shifting loyalties.