Comedy Quotes in The Tempest Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What does Trinculo say about Caliban?

To creep under his gaberdine

Misery acquaints a man with strange bed-fellows

They will not give a doit to relieve a lame beggar

There would this monster make a man (correct)

What does Trinculo mean by 'they will not give a doit...?'

They will not give a doit to relieve a lame beggar, they will lazy out ten to see a dead Indian

What does 'to creep under his gaberdine' refer to?

To creep under his gaberdine

What does Caliban mean by 'misery acquaints a man with strange bed-fellows'?

Misery acquaints a man with strange bed-fellows Signup and view all the answers

Who are the people mentioned by Stephano that he loved?

Loved Mall, Meg, Marion and Margery Signup and view all the answers

What does Stephano mean by 'for she had a tongue with a tang'?

For she had a tongue with a tang Signup and view all the answers

What will give language to you according to Stephano?

Here is that which will give language to you Signup and view all the answers

What does Caliban say about the God he refers to?

That's a brave God and bears celestial liquor, I will kneel to him Signup and view all the answers

What does Stephano want to do with the bottle?

Swear by this bottle Signup and view all the answers

What does 'kiss the book' mean in context?

Kiss the book Signup and view all the answers

What does Caliban offer to show?

I'll show thee every fertile inch o' the island Signup and view all the answers

What does Caliban ask when he says 'I prithee...?'

I prithee, be my God Signup and view all the answers

What does Caliban promise when he says 'I'll kiss...?'

I'll kiss thy foot, I'll swear myself thy subject Signup and view all the answers

What does 'ban ban cacaliban' signify?

Ban ban cacaliban, has a new master get a new man Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

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.

Description

Explore the humorous quotes of Trinculo in Shakespeare's 'The Tempest' with these flashcards. Each card presents a quote followed by its insightful definition, helping you understand the comedic elements of the play. Perfect for students and fans of Shakespeare's comedies.