... of his actions demands that he forgo any illusion of finding comfort where he once found rest. The innocence of slumber invites comparisons to the vulnerable damsel in distress. The dream or nightmare can become the predatory interloper imposing itself on the unsuspecting consciousness when it has no defense. In The Tempest, Prospero's ultimate control over his daughter is shown by his ability to put her to sleep at will ... and foil to Romeo, Mercutio brings us some of the sharpest insights and beautiful poetry in the play. He and Romeo express two different views on dreams in this sce...

• Word Count: 2655
• Approx Pages: 11
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School