The Complexity of Prospero in "The Tempest"

Overview

• Prospero is a complex character in Shakespeare's play, "The Tempest."
• He is the exiled Duke of Milan, a sorcerer, a father, a ruler, and a colonizer.
• His character is open to multiple interpretations.

Prospero's Power and Control

• Prospero has significant magical abilities, demonstrated by his orchestration of the storm that shipwrecks his brother Antonio and the king of Naples.
• He has absolute power over the island and its inhabitants, acting as a figure of authority.

Relationship with Miranda

• Prospero is shown as a loving and protective father to Miranda.
• However, he is also manipulative and controlling, putting her to sleep with magic to carry out his plans.

Comparison to a Playwright

• Prospero's control over the events and characters in the play likens him to a playwright, similar to Shakespeare.
• He directs the timing and action of the play, much like a director.

Interaction with Ariel

• Ariel is a powerful spirit bound to serve Prospero.
• Prospero uses a mixture of gratitude and threats to maintain control over Ariel.
• Despite his control, Prospero honors his promise to release Ariel, showing a more human side.

Relationship with Caliban

• Represents the colonizer and colonized dynamic.
• Prospero seized control of the island, making Caliban, the original inhabitant, his servant.
• Prospero justifies his rule by claiming cultural superiority.
• Caliban resents being taught Prospero’s language, viewing it as a tool of oppression.

Magic as a Metaphor

• Prospero's magic represents his power and control.
• His power comes from his art, which he values more than his duties as a duke.
• Magic is used to micromanage events on the island.
• Shakespeare hints at a connection between magic and theater, with Prospero as a metaphor for a playwright.

Transformation and Redemption

• Prospero undergoes a transformation, moving from vengeance to forgiveness.
• He decides to show mercy and breaks the spells binding his enemies.
• Ultimately forgives his brother Antonio and renounces his magical powers.
• Symbolically, he breaks his staff and drowns his book, indicating his return to a mortal life.

The Epilogue and Shakespeare's Farewell

• Prospero addresses the audience, acknowledging the end of his power.
• Parallels are drawn between Prospero's and Shakespeare's farewells to their respective powers.

Conclusion

• Prospero’s journey from control and vengeance to forgiveness and redemption is central to his character arc.
• Raises questions about whether his eventual redemption justifies his earlier actions.

Discussion

• Encouraged to reflect on Prospero’s character and share opinions on his redemption and actions throughout the play.