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The Character of Prospero Has Given Rise To A Strange Medley Discussion Among The Critics
The Character of Prospero Has Given Rise To A Strange Medley Discussion Among The Critics
among the critics. Some are of the opinion that Prospero is a mere
symbol a metaphysical abstraction having little hold on life and
reality. Others have identified Prospero with his creator Shakespeare,
and it has been said that Shakespeare speaks here in his own person
through the mouth of Prospero. Whatever the critics might say, there is
no doubt that Prospero is an intensely human being, with human
failings and weakness, with that touch of nature which makes the
whole world kin.
His love for her consoled in his darkest hours and enabled him to
endure his misfortune. She was the angel whose smile inspired him
with an exceptional courage. Prospero always uses terms of great
endearment for Miranda. He calls her a beloved darling, dear heart
a rich gift a third of his own life. Talking to Ferdinand, he lavishes
the highest praise upon his daughter and says that no amount of praise
can do justice to her.
Prospero does not use his supernatural powers for any evil
purpose. He makes us of his powers only to bring about the best result.
He causes the ship-wreck to bring Ferdinand and Gonzalo as well as his
enemies under his influence. He leads Ferdinand to Miranda and leaves
the rest to nature. He foils the plot of the traitors and afterwards tells
them that he was conscious of it. Similarly, he frustrates the plot of
Caliban, Stephano and Trinculo. He makes Antonio, Sebastian and
Alonso repent of their sins and regains his dukedom. He has no other
object in the practice of his art but that of bringing about their
retributive justice.