In what way is The Tempest romantic in substance but classical in form?
The Tempest is a notable literary work by William Shakespeare. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of The Tempest.
Answer
In what way is ‘The Tempest’ romantic in substance but classical in form? (2020, 2015) ✪✪✪
Or, What are the common classical elements in ‘The Tempest’? (2018)
William Shakespeare (1564–1616) wrote “The Tempest” (1623) as his last great play. It is both romantic and classical. The story is full of love and magic, but its structure follows the classical rules of time, place, and action.
Romantic Substance: The play is romantic in feeling and imagination. The lonely island, the wild storm, and Ariel’s songs create a magical world. Prospero’s power and Ariel’s spirits bring wonder and fantasy. Miranda and Ferdinand’s love adds sweetness and purity. Miranda says,
“O wonder!
How many goodly creatures are there here!”
This shows her innocent heart. Forgiveness, mercy, and peace give the story a romantic soul. The play celebrates nature, love, and the beauty of goodness.
Classical Form: The form of the play follows classical rules. The story happens within one day. This is the unity of time. Everything takes place on Prospero’s island. This is unity of place. The whole story follows one main action: Prospero’s loss and forgiveness. This is unity of action. There are no side plots. Every event connects to Prospero’s plan. This order and balance make the play classical in form.
Balance Reason and Emotion: Shakespeare joins feeling and form beautifully. The story is full of dreams, spirits, and magic, but the ending is calm and moral. Prospero forgives everyone and says,
“The rarer action is
In virtue than in vengeance.”
This shows discipline and control. The play begins with a storm but ends with peace. Emotion and reason stay together, romantic in heart, classical in shape.
Thus, “The Tempest” joins imagination with order. Its story is romantic, but its form is classical. It is a perfect harmony of dream, beauty, and discipline.