The Tempest as a Comic Tragedy

The Tempest by William Shakespeare is a fascinating play that defies easy categorization. While it has
elements of both tragedy and comedy, it is often classified as a tragicomedy or a romance. Let’s explore
why this play is considered both comic and tragic:

1. Comedy Elements:
i. Genre: When the First Folio edition of Shakespeare’s plays was published in 1623, The Tempest
appeared under the genre category of “comedy.” Like other comedies, the play resolves happily,
with the promise of a wedding between Miranda and Ferdinand.
ii. Misunderstandings: The plot revolves around a series of misunderstandings that are
resolved over the course of the play. The tempest (or storm) that gives the play its title causes a
shipwreck, stranding characters on an island. Although some characters mistakenly believe their
shipmates are dead, no one actually dies in the storm, and everyone is happily reunited at the
play’s end.
iii. Attempted Assassinations: The play features not one but two attempted assassinations:
Alonso and Antonio’s attempted assassination of Prospero, which leads to Prospero fleeing to
the island, and Antonio and Sebastian’s plot to murder Alonso. However, neither attempt is
successful, and no one dies.

2. Romance Elements:
i. Late Plays: Scholars now classify The Tempest as a romance, a genre assigned to a group of
plays Shakespeare wrote at the end of his career. These plays deviate from the conventions of
traditional comedy or tragedy.
ii. Magic and Supernatural: The play contains elements of both tragedy and comedy, with
the overall structure moving from a “tragic” beginning to a “comedic” ending. Magic and the
supernatural play a significant role. For example, the massive storm that opens the play is the
result of Prospero’s conjuring, and throughout the play, Prospero (and his magical spirit Ariel)
use magic to manipulate and dazzle other characters.
iii. Marriage: While marriage is an element of the plot, it is not the driving force. The story of the
lovers, Miranda and Ferdinand, doesn’t drive the action. Instead, the essential conflict—
Prospero’s desire to regain his title—takes center stage.

In summary, The Tempest is a play that skillfully blends tragedy and comedy, creating a unique and
captivating experience for its audience. Its plot structure, magical elements, and thematic focus
contribute to its classification as a tragicomedy or romance.