Forgiveness and Reconciliation are the keynotes in the play “The Tempest” – Discuss. 

Answer

Forgiveness and Reconciliation are the keynotes in the play “The Tempest” – Discuss. 

or, Comment on the theme of forgiveness and reconciliation in the play “The Tempest”

“The Tempest” (1623) is a remarkable tragi-comedy by William Shakespeare (1564-1616). The play circles around themes of forgiveness and reconciliation. These are crucial elements that drive the plot of the play forward. William Shakespeare indeed explores the themes of forgiveness and reconciliation prominently through the character of Prospero. Here are key points that highlight the significance of forgiveness and reconciliation in the play.

Prospero’s Forgiveness: At the heart of “The Tempest” is Prospero’s journey towards forgiveness. Prospero, the former Duke of Milan, was betrayed by his brother Antonio and Alonso, the King of Naples. They exiled Prospero to a remote island. Throughout the play, Prospero wrestles with feelings of anger and a desire for revenge. He uses magic to create a storm (the tempest) to shipwreck his enemies. However, by the end, he forgives those who wronged him, including his brother Antonio. His decision to forgive is a crucial turning point in the plot. He realizes that forgiveness is more powerful than holding onto anger. His forgiveness is essential for his own peace of mind and for the resolution of the play’s conflicts. Before he faces his enemies, Prospero tells Ariel that, 

“The rarer action is 

In virtue than in vengeance.” 

Prospero means to say that it is better to forgive than to hate one’s enemies.

Reconciliation with Caliban: Prospero’s relationship with Caliban, the native inhabitant of the island, is complex. Prospero kills the witch Sycorax, the mother of Caliban. Then, he starts to reign over the island. Initially, Prospero treats Caliban harshly. He sees him as a slave and a brute. However, as the play progresses, Prospero begins to acknowledge his own role in Caliban’s mistreatment. Caliban, Trinculo, and Stephano plot to kill Prospero and steal his book. Eventually, Prospero forgives Caliban for his attempted rebellion and the attempt to rape Miranda. Caliban promises, 

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