Jul 25, 2008

The Tempest | Act IV, Scene 1, lines 164-266 Summary and Analysis

Summary
Prospero anxiously summons Ariel, informing him that they must prepare for the coming of Caliban. Ariel then discloses the latest information about the whereabouts of Caliban, Stephano, and Trinculo. With tabor and pipe Ariel had charmed the three conspirators into following him and left them neck deep in the “filthy-mantled pool” beyond the cell. Prospero praises Ariel, instructing him to remain invisible as he gathers the former duke’s royal wardrobe to use as bait to catch the would-be murderers.

Ariel leaves promptly. Left alone, Prospero reflects on the pains...