Prospero

Prospero is the central force behind the entire action of The Tempest, and remains the only character (except for his servant, Ariel) who is aware of everything that takes place over the course of the play. Prospero first appears in Act I, scene ii, in the role of father and educator to his daughter, Miranda, at which time he relates the tale of his lost dukedom and his lust for revenge. Yet he does not reveal his plan to Miranda; instead, he sends her to sleep (to spare her innocence) before conversing with Ariel about what should be done with the victims of the recent shipwreck. His tone changes somewhat when he speaks to Ariel, as he uses coercion and threats to assure that his bidding is done. Likewise, he treats the slave, Caliban, with a heavy hand; while he once had hopes of educating the creature...