tance. When Miranda becomes anxious for the people at sea, Prospero says to her,
“Tell your piteous heart,
There’s no harm done.”
This line shows that Prospero’s storm is not cruel; it is only the beginning of moral correction.
The Spirit Ariel Teaches Mercy: Prospero’s spirit servant, Ariel, helps him in the plan of punishment. But Ariel also reminds him of mercy. When Prospero becomes too harsh, Ariel softly says that if he saw their suffering, he would feel pity. This changes Prospero’s heart. Ariel says,
“Mine would, sir, were I human.”
Hearing this, Prospero realizes that forgiveness is more noble than revenge. Ariel, though not human, becomes the voice of humanity and compassion.
The Repentance of Alonso: Among the guilty men, Alonso, the King of Naples, sincerely repents. He believes his son Ferdinand is dead and suffers deeply. This suffering cleanses his pride and makes him humble. When Prospero finally appears, Alonso begs for pardon and admits his sin. He begs pardon to Prospero. He says,
“Thou pardon me my wrongs.”
This sincere repentance moves Prospero to forgive. Thus, the king’s confession becomes the bridge to reconciliation.
Prospero’s Forgiveness of His Enemies: After years of pain, Prospero forgives Antonio, Sebastian, and Alonso. He does not take revenge even though he has the power to punish them. Instead, he frees Ariel, accepts Caliban, and restores peace to all. He says,
“The rarer action is
In virtue than in vengeance.”
This is the key line of the play. It means true greatness lies in forgiving others, not in punishing them. By forgiving, Prospero regains his peace and becomes truly human again.
Reconciliation and a New Beginning: The end of the play is full of joy and reunion. Prospero regains his dukedom. Miranda and Ferdinand’s love unites Milan and Naples. Caliban learns from his mistakes. Ariel wins freedom. The storm of hatred turns into calm. Through forgiveness, all wounds are healed. Prospero says,
“We are such stuff
As dreams are made on; and our little life
Is rounded with a sleep.”
This line by Prospero celebrates a world of hope, love, and renewal. The play ends in harmony. It shows that reconciliation is the greatest power of all.
“The Tempest” begins with anger but ends with peace. Prospero wins not by revenge, but by forgiveness. He forgives his enemies, frees Ariel, and blesses Miranda’s marriage. True power is mercy, not magic. Shakespeare shows that forgiveness is the greatest miracle of all.
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