About the work
William Shakespeare's last solely authored play, from 1611, a fantastical drama of magic, forgiveness and the power of art.
Plot
The former duke Prospero lives with his daughter Miranda on a remote island, where through magic he rules over the air spirit Ariel and the savage Caliban. When his enemies pass by on a ship, he conjures a storm and brings them to the island. Through illusions and trials he leads them to repentance. In the end Prospero forgives his enemies, renounces magic and grants Ariel freedom.
Cultural significance
The Tempest is regarded as Shakespeare's farewell to the stage and has often been interpreted as a reflection on art, colonialism and power. Prospero's famous farewell monologue is frequently understood as Shakespeare's own leave-taking.