The Tempest
By W. Shakespeare
It begins with a ship caught in a violent storm, a tempest conjured by Prospero, the rightful Duke of Milan. On board are Alonso, the King of Naples, his son Ferdinand, Antonio, Prospero's brother who usurped his dukedom, and other nobles. The shipwrecked passengers find themselves scattered on the remote island where Prospero and his daughter Miranda have been living for twelve years.
Prospero explains to Miranda how they came to be on the island. He was usurped by his brother Antonio, aided by Alonso, and they were set adrift at sea. However, Prospero's magical powers have kept them safe on the island. Miranda is introduced to Ferdinand, Alonso's son, and they fall in love at first sight.
Meanwhile, two of Alonso's courtiers, Trinculo and Stephano, encounter Caliban, a deformed and monstrous creature who is the only other inhabitant of the island. Caliban offers to serve them in exchange for their help in overthrowing Prospero.
Back at Prospero's dwelling, Ariel, a spirit enslaved by Prospero's magic, reports to him on the shipwrecked passengers. Prospero orders Ariel to ensure that no harm comes to them, as his ultimate goal is to use the situation to regain his rightful place as Duke of Milan.
Prospero manipulates events on the island to bring his enemies to repentance. He orchestrates a series of illusions and encounters, including a magical banquet and a masque celebrating the betrothal of Ferdinand and Miranda. Through these events, Prospero forces Alonso, Antonio, and Sebastian (Alonso's brother) to confront their past deeds and acknowledge their guilt.
Meanwhile, Ferdinand undergoes trials set by Prospero to prove his love for Miranda. Despite the hardships, Ferdinand remains steadfast in his devotion.
As the climax approaches, Prospero confronts his brother Antonio and reveals his true identity. He forgives Antonio but reminds him of the consequences of his actions. Prospero also confronts Alonso and persuades him to acknowledge his wrongdoing.
Caliban, Trinculo, and Stephano plot against Prospero, but their plans are thwarted by Ariel's magic. Prospero punishes them by tormenting them with spirits disguised as hounds.
In the end, Prospero decides to renounce his magic and return to Milan. He frees Ariel from servitude and forgives Caliban, acknowledging that he is a product of his environment. Prospero invites the shipwrecked passengers to his dwelling, where they reconcile and agree to return to Italy.
With the help of Ariel's magic, Prospero orchestrates their safe departure from the island. As they sail away, Prospero delivers his famous soliloquy, asking the audience for their forgiveness and expressing his desire to return to his former life with newfound wisdom.
The play ends with Prospero breaking his staff and drowning his book of magic, symbolizing his renunciation of his former powers. He bids farewell to Ariel and Caliban before departing the island with Miranda and the rest of the passengers, leaving behind a transformed and
reconciled world.