Shakespeare's The Tempest - Hertog Foundation
Shakespeare’s play, The Tempest, tells the story of how the Dukedom of Milan was lost and regained, and prompts us to think about the role of the liberal arts in learning how to rule. We discover that Prospero’s study of the liberal arts contributes to his fall from power. But it also helps him preside over the small society of strange creatures on the remote island where the action of the play takes place. What does Prospero need to learn about nature, authority, love, forgiveness, and death in order to bring about the restoration of the rightful line of succession in Milan? In this online seminar, led by Professor Jenna Storey, fellows will closely study one of Shakespeare’s greatest plays to meditate on the kind of education we need to engage well in political life.


Images: Scene from Shakespeare’s The Tempest | Miranda Observing the Wreck of the King’s Ship

Jenna Storey discusses Why We Are Restless

Faculty

Jenna Silber Storey

Jenna Silber Storey is Assistant Professor in Politics and International Affairs at Furman University and Executive Director of Furman’s Tocqueville Program. She is the co-author of a book with Benjamin Storey: Why We Are Restless: On the Modern Quest for Contentment (Princeton University Press, 2021). Further information about her work can be found at www.jbstorey.com.

Download the Full Syllabus

Download

Preview the Syllabus by Week/Session

Other Courses You Might Be Interested In

Machiavelli’s The Prince

Study the classic treatise that brought Machiavelli fame—and infamy.

Religion & Politics

Consider the proper role of religion in public life.

Vasily Grossman’s Life & Fate

Read the novel known as the Soviet War & Peace, and reflect on the nature of totalitarianism.

Free Speech in a Fractured Republic

Situate the classic debate over free speech in both historical and contemporary context.

Shakespeare’s Prince & Tyrant

Explore the political and religious contexts of Shakespeare's plays.

Humanities at Hertog

Humanities at Hertog

Choose a great literary work to study alongside a master teacher and engaged peers.