The Tempest · Chapter
Scene I explained
Prospero, in his magic robes, prepares to conclude his project.
What happens
Prospero, in his magic robes, prepares to conclude his project. He instructs Ariel to release the shipwrecked nobles, whom he has kept confined. After abjuring his magic, he forgives Alonso, Sebastian, and Antonio, and reveals Ferdinand and Miranda playing chess. The group reunites joyfully, and Prospero promises to tell his story before returning to Naples. Caliban, Stephano, and Trinculo are brought in, mocked, and dismissed. Prospero invites everyone to his cell, and Ariel is set free.
Themes in this chapter
Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Prospero forgives Alonso, Sebastian, and Antonio, choosing virtue over vengeance.
Magic and Illusion
Prospero abjures his magic, breaking his staff and drowning his book, ending his use of supernatural powers.
Colonization and Servitude
Caliban's subjugation and his plot against Prospero highlight the dynamics of colonial power and rebellion.
Characters to notice
- Prospero
Abjures his magic, forgives his enemies, and prepares to return to Milan.
- Ariel
Reports on the prisoners, helps attire Prospero, and is promised freedom.
- Alonso
Reunited with Ferdinand and expresses joy and remorse.
- Ferdinand
Revealed playing chess with Miranda, reunited with his father.
- Miranda
Sees the shipwrecked nobles and exclaims 'O brave new world'.
- Caliban
Brought in with Stephano and Trinculo, acknowledges Prospero's mastery and seeks grace.
Key passages
“The rarer action is / In virtue than in vengeance”
Choosing to do good is more admirable than seeking revenge.
Prospero articulates his decision to forgive rather than punish.
“O brave new world, / That has such people in't!”
What a wonderful new world, filled with such admirable people!
Miranda marvels at the shipwrecked nobles, unaware of their flaws.
“This thing of darkness I / Acknowledge mine.”
I accept responsibility for this dark creature.
Prospero claims Caliban as his own, acknowledging his role in the relationship.