# Scene I explained — The Tempest

> Chapter companion for The Tempest by William Shakespeare.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_tempest_se/chapters/act-v-scene-i
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_tempest_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_tempest_se/chapters