Student Question

What is the most important page in The Tempest by Shakespeare?

Quick answer:

The most important part of The Tempest is near the end when Prospero draws his magic circle. This pivotal moment resolves the main conflict, as Prospero seeks acknowledgment of the wrongs done to him by his brother Antonio and others. It marks the end of Prospero's use of magic and his decision to free Ariel, signifying forgiveness and the restoration of order.

Expert Answers

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Arguably, the most important section of Shakespeare's The Tempest is near the end of the play when Prospero draws his magic circle.  The major conflict in the play revolves around Prospero's attempt to seek revenge on his brother Antonio and Antonio's supporters Alonso and Sebastian for Antonio's taking over control of Milan.  Shunned into exile, Prospero has become the lord of the island, and he has harnassed Ariel's magic to use for his own purposes.  When Prospero draws the magic circle, wrongs begin to come right as Prospero calls for the wrongs against him to be acknowledged.  Also, this is the end of Prospero's use of magic, and afterward, he frees Ariel as he has been promising for a long time.  So, this scene may be considered important.

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