The Tempest : Characters
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, to various questions of The Tempest.
Characters
Major Characters
Prospero: Prospero, the magician, is the former Duke of Milan who was overthrown by his brother Antonio. He uses his magical abilities to control the events on the island and eventually seeks reconciliation.
Ariel: Ariel is a spirit who serves Prospero in exchange for being freed from imprisonment in a tree. He uses his supernatural powers to help Prospero execute his plans.
Miranda: Miranda is Prospero’s 15-year-old daughter who grew up on the island. She falls in love with Ferdinand, the son of King Alonso, and represents innocence and compassion.
Caliban: Caliban is the native inhabitant of the island and the enslaved servant of Prospero. He resents Prospero for taking control of the island, which he believes rightfully belongs to him.
Alonso: Alonso is the King of Naples who helped Antonio overthrow Prospero. He is remorseful for his past actions and believes his son Ferdinand has drowned.
Gonzalo: Gonzalo is an advisor to King Alonso and a loyal old friend of Prospero. He helped Prospero and Miranda escape Milan and remains optimistic throughout the play.
Antonio: Antonio, Prospero’s brother, is the current Duke of Milan. He is power-hungry and has no remorse for betraying Prospero and usurping his title.
Ferdinand: Ferdinand is the son of King Alonso and the heir to Naples. He falls in love with Miranda and proves his loyalty through his actions.
Minor Characters
Adrian: Adrian is a lord in King Alonso’s court. He has a minor role but remains loyal to the king.
Boatswain: The boatswain is the leader of the ship’s crew and is responsible for the ship’s safety during a tempest.
Francisco: Francisco is a lord in King Alonso’s court. Like Adrian, he plays a minor role and supports the king.
Mariners: The mariners are the sailors aboard Alonso’s ship. They are seen during the tempest, trying to save the ship.
Other spirits (Iris, Ceres, Juno, and Nymphs): These spirits appear during Prospero’s masque. They celebrate Miranda and Ferdinand’s engagement.
Sebastian: Sebastian is Alonso’s brother.
Shipmaster: The shipmaster is the master of Alonso’s ship.
Stephano: Stephano is the butler of King Alonso.
Sycorax: Sycorax is Caliban’s mother, a witch who uses magic in evil ways.
Trinculo: Trinculo is King Alonso’s jester.