Study Questions Painted by John Opie, R.A. Engraved by John Peter Simon. From The Winter's Tale New Zealand

1. As the title suggested, the image of seasons and time prevail in Winter's Tale. How does the changing of time manage the play?

 

2. Apollo's oracle, which represents the divine power, seems dominate the fate of the characters in the play. Discuss how Leontes tries to challenge the divine power.

 

3. Discuss the causality and consequence of Leontes's jealousy. Consider the ambiguity of his language and see how his heart changes suddenly from urging his friend to stay longer to being suspicious and jealous.

 

4. How does the loss and discovery of Perdita foreshadow the resurrection of Hermione? How does Perdita's double identity as both shepherdess and princess bring the theme of social rank to the spotlight?

 

5. As critics attack the illogical resurrection scene of Hermione, how can we justify the resurrection scene?