Oct 15, 2008

The Tempest | Act II, Scene 1, lines 185-328 Summary and Analysis

Summary
Sebastian and Antonio are bantering with Gonzalo when Ariel arrives, playing his somber music. The soothing sound quickly works its magical effects, lulling all except Alonso, Sebastian, and Antonio to sleep. Longing for sleep to shut out his depressing thoughts, Alonso soon feels unusually tired. Antonio assures him that they will stand guard, keeping him safe while he takes his rest.

Sebastian and Antonio are puzzled about the “strange drowsiness” that has suddenly come over the royal party. After the king is asleep, Antonio wastes no time trying to persuade...