Who is Prospero in 'The Tempest': An In-depth Analysis

William Shakespeare's The Tempest (first performed in 1611) is a romantic and magical play that has captivated audiences for centuries. At its heart is Prospero, the protagonist who acts as the Duke of Milan and, more importantly, a powerful sorcerer. Understanding the character of Prospero can provide great insight into the themes and dynamics of the play. This article will delve into who Prospero is, his role in the story, and why he remains a fascinating figure in literature.

Prospero: The Exiled Duke of Milan

Prospero is the central figure of The Tempest. He was once the Duke of Milan, a position that he lost due to his brother Antonio's treachery. As Shakespeare explains in Act 1, Scene 2, Prospero was overthrown by Antonio and his ally, Sebastian, who usurped his dukedom for themselves. In exile, Prospero has retreated to a magical island, where he uses his powerful sorcery to create a world apart from the harsh realities of his previous life.

Prospero: The Sorcerer

One of the most prominent aspects of Prospero is his magical abilities. Shakespeare uses Prospero's sorcery to drive the plot and create a fantastical world. Some of the key elements of Prospero's magic include:

Teleportation: He is able to call Caliban and his fellow spirits to his presence by means of a book of magic. Transformation: Through magic, he can change Ariel from a spirit into a human form. Control: He wields a powerful staff called the 'staff of the duchy' and is able to control and manipulate the elements of nature with the magic book. Punishment and reward: Prospero uses his powers to maintain order and righteousness on the island, punishing Caliban and Ariel's enemies (like Antonio) and helping his allies (especially Ferdinand).

Prospero's sorcery is not merely for entertainment, but it serves a deep purpose. He uses his powers to teach the others about the dangers of ambition and betrayal, and to ultimately find a way to return to Milan.

Prospero: An Analogue for Shakespeare

William Shakespeare is often seen as the creator of many great characters, but some argue that he is also a character in his own plays. Prospero is often viewed as an analogue for Shakespeare himself. As Prospero uses his book of magic to control the actions of others, some believe Shakespeare similarly wields his own words and plays to exert power and influence. Just as Prospero's magic holds the key to his adventurous and harrowing life, so too does Shakespeare use his pen to explore the depths of human nature and the complexities of the world.

Prospero as the Subject of Your Homework Assignment

If you are an educator or a student assigned to write about Prospero, there are several key questions and approaches to consider:

Who is Prospero exactly? Discussing his past as Duke of Milan and his present as a powerful sorcerer. What is Prospero’s role in the story? Analyzing his influence on the plot and the development of other characters. Why is Prospero's character significant? Discussing the importance of Prospero in conveying the play's themes and moral lessons.

Research: Consider reading critical analyses of The Tempest, particularly those focusing on Prospero. Look for insights into the character's psyche, the social and political implications of the play, and the historical context in which it was written.

Conclusion

Prospero is a complex and multifaceted character in William Shakespeare's The Tempest. He serves as a sorcerer, the protagonist of his own story, an analogue for Shakespeare, and the subject of academic inquiry. Understanding Prospero's character can provide a deeper appreciation for the themes of the play, the times in which it was written, and the enduring significance of Shakespeare's work.

Keywords

Prospero - The sorcerer and protagonist of The Tempest. The Tempest - The play by William Shakespeare. Shakespeare - The renowned playwright responsible for The Tempest and other famous works.

References and Further Reading:

Nicholls, Mark. Shakespeare and His Belles Lettres Critics. Cambridge University Press, 2009. Jenkins, Harold. The Tempest: A Study in Traditional Forms. Routledge, 1961. Lamb, Andrew, and Gerald Graff. Shakespeare, Our Contemporary. University of Chicago Press, 2006.