We also remember that this this is the age of geographical journeys and trade. The discovery of the New World suggests the possibility of new beginnings of creating a utopia somewhere else. We also remember that the it was the parents who were in charge of marriage arrangements and that marriages were often used to create political or religious alliances. Thus when Ferdinand marries Miranda more is at stake than romantic love. As prince of Naples he will also receive jurisdiction over Milan,thus effectively blocking Antonio from taking it back.
Language is determined by culture and no culture is eternal.
In the meantime, let us be grateful that we can still enjoy a Shakespearean play as it was originally written. So we've thought a bit about why a Shakespearean play is difficult, we know that the play begins with a storm scene which in itself leaves us feeling a bit ambiguous. Now isn't it time to get on with this morning's lecture so that you know what you are supposed to learn from the play. Well, if you want to know, I'm not going to tell you. Instead, I will give you several possible approaches, some of them contradictory, and then allow you to decide for yourself which make Shakespeare come alive most vividly for yourself.