the stage like a director. All other characters, Ariel, Caliban, Ferdinand, Alonso, Antonio, and Sebastian, move according to his plan.
Prospero as a Seeker of Justice: The story of “The Tempest” begins with Prospero’s past. He was once the Duke of Milan but was betrayed by his brother, Antonio, and King Alonso of Naples. They threw him and baby Miranda into the sea. By Gonzalo’s kindness, he reached the island and built a new life. This event makes Prospero both a victim and a seeker of justice. He says to Miranda,
“My brother, and thy uncle, call’d Antonio—
He whom next thyself
Of all the world I loved.”
This line shows his pain and love. His desire to make things right gives the play its central purpose.
Prospero as a Magician: Prospero’s magical power makes him a god-like figure in the play. With his books and staff, he commands the spirit Ariel and controls nature itself. He creates storms, causes illusions, and tests people’s hearts. Ariel calls him “great master”. Ariel shows deep respect for him. Prospero’s power shows the union of knowledge and nature. Yet, he uses his magic not for cruelty but to guide others toward repentance. This shows his control over both the storm and the human mind. His art gives shape and motion to every scene.
Prospero as a Father and Teacher: As a father, Prospero shows tenderness and wisdom. He educates Miranda. He protects her innocence. He protects her from Caliban. He guides her love for Ferdinand. He allows them to fall in love but tests Ferdinand’s honesty first. He says,
“I have done nothing but in care of thee,
Of thee, my dear one, thee, my daughter.”
This line shows that his love for Miranda is pure and protective. His fatherly role adds emotion and humanity to the story. This balances his power with kindness.
Prospero as a Symbol of Forgiveness and Humanity: At the end, Prospero becomes a symbol of forgiveness. Though he has full power to punish his enemies, he chooses mercy instead. He forgives Antonio, Alonso, and even Caliban. He breaks his staff and gives up his magic. This proves that compassion is stronger than revenge. He says,
“The rarer action is
In virtue than in vengeance.”
This line shows his moral greatness. By forgiving, he restores harmony and peace. The play begins with a tempest of anger but ends with calm under Prospero’s goodness.
Thus, Prospero is the soul of “The Tempest”. He creates the storm and ends it with peace. Every action begins and ends with him. He rules the island, guides the people, and forgives his enemies. His power is not in magic, but in mercy. He is the heart, the mind, and the meaning of the play.
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