Prospero is the main character of the play. He is the prime agent, who manipulates the whole action of the play. He is the real protagonist who holds a great control and influence over the other characters of the play. He is the cause of bringing the play to a cheerful ending.
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In the early days of his life, he gets interested in the study of philosophy and magic and becomes indifferent to the management of state affairs of his dukedom.
He acts as a tyrant when he deals with Caliban and at times, even with his favourite spirit, Ariel. From this perspective, he is not a likeable person. He is a person of high prejudice. However, from other perspectives, he earns the like and respect of the viewers. He is an affectionate father and dearly loves his daughter, Miranda.
He uses his magical powers to bring Ferdinand and Miranda closer. He feels happy when his plan to bring them together in love succeeds. When he realizes that the future of his daughter is secure, he is willing to retire to Milan.
Prospero thinks that he has tried to do well to others. He grants liberty to Ariel and makes a huge effort to civilize Caliban. He puts Ariel under his command and gets everything done through him. Caliban curses him to make him a slave. He even tries to outrage the modesty of Miranda.
Prospero has all reasons to take revenge upon his enemies. However, he chooses the path of forgiveness. He resolves to forgive his enemies if they are repentant of their past evil deeds.
Prospero is wise and extremely resourceful because he has magical powers. His wisdom makes him tolerant and charitable at the end of the play. However, he never reconciled completely with his brother. He treats him with studied contempt and neglect. He only gave him a brief verbal pardon and otherwise hardly addresses a word to him. In reality, there is anger against his enemies beneath the grant of pardon.
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He becomes a terrible old man. But he is also a noble, kind and generous person. He forgives all his enemies. Moreover, his forgiveness is not only solemn and judicial but also abstract and impersonal. He does not act against his own noble deeds.