Question

Near the beginning of Act V, Prospero stands alone onstage and delivers a speech where he lists his many accomplishments in magic. At the end of this speech, he tells himself that he will abandon 'this rough magic' once he's managed to resolve his conflict with Alonso and Antonio: 'I'll break my staff, Bury it's certain fathoms in the earth, And, deeper than did ever plummet sound, I'll drown my book' (V.i.). In The Tempest, Prospero uses magic as a means to an end. This end is the use the magic to right a wrong by chastising his adversaries. Because of their situation, some of Prospero's past enemy (Alsonso specifically) reflects on their evil past which leads to their repentance. Similar to the prompt about liberal education, Prospero's education in magic is used to liberate the conscience of his former enemies. Of course, the men must come to terms with themselves after much hardship. Prospero therefore uses magic to right a wrong and restore himself to power. However, once he accomplishes his goal, he resolves to abandon magic and rid himself of its corrupting influence for good. If we were to argue it was Prospero's intention to save the book but destroy the magic, he would have not drowned his book. Prospero derives his magic from the books, not specifically from the staff. The staff merely performs his work while the book(s) grants him the authority to command the staff. If we reflect on Caliban's warning to Trinculo and Sebastian, we'll note that Caliban tells the men to : Remember First to possess his books; for without them He's but a sot, as I am, nor hath notOne spirit to command: they all do hate him As rootedly as I. Burn but his books; 65He has brave utensils,–for so he calls them,–Which, when he has a house, he'll deck withal. Therefore, Prospero would be powerless or lacks authority over others without his magic. However, he uses his magic as a means to establish peace, unity, and happiness, with his powers when the men really deserved imprisonment, exile, execution for overthrowing Prospero. Once Prospero reaches that good end, he puts away the necessities to further instruct (Miranda and Ferdinand) or chastise (Alonso, Antonio, Sebastian, Caliban, Trinculo, Stephano) because they have no need for it. Course Hero: When Prospero makes his speech to the spirits and vows to 'break my staff' and 'drown my book,' it isn't yet entirely clear why he is ready to give up all his magic. He has gotten to the height of his power and orchestrated everything he wanted to, but when it comes time to act out his final revenge he is unwilling to harm anyone. Perhaps Shakespeare is suggesting great power does not satisfy unless it is used for good. Instead of enacting justice against men who deserve some kind of punishment, Prospero turns justice on its head and extends mercy and forgiveness, which is why Prospero plays a 'divine' figure.

Answer 1

Prospero's decision to abandon magic in The Tempest signifies a shift from revenge to mercy and forgiveness. His ultimate goal is not just to right the wrongs done to him but to impart justice compassionately, emphasizing that great power should be used for good.

Step-by-step explanation:

In The Tempest, Prospero's abandonment of magic at the play's conclusion symbolizes a profound transformation in his character. Initially driven by a desire for revenge, he realizes that true satisfaction comes not from wielding power vindictively but from using it for benevolent purposes.

The act of breaking his staff and drowning his book signifies a deliberate choice to relinquish the tools of his magical authority, indicating a departure from a vengeful mindset. Shakespeare suggests that great power is meaningful when used for positive ends, as Prospero, resembling a divine figure, opts for mercy and forgiveness over retribution.

This thematic shift aligns with the idea that true wisdom lies in tempering authority with compassion. Prospero's decision highlights the play's exploration of justice and redemption, challenging conventional notions of revenge and showcasing the transformative potential of forgiveness. The symbolic act of abandoning magic underscores the play's larger message about the responsible use of power and the capacity for personal growth and enlightenment.