The Tempest, William Shakespeare: Major Characters
Character Description Prospero The rightful Duke of Milan, exiled by his brother Antonio and King Alonso of Naples. Prospero has lived on a deserted island for 12 years with his daughter Miranda, becoming a powerful enchanter. He controls the spirit Ariel and Caliban, using his magic to manipulate events but ultimately chooses forgiveness over revenge. Ariel A spirit and Prospero's servant, freed from imprisonment by Prospero. Ariel desires freedom promised by Prospero and aids him with mischievous tricks. At the play's end, Ariel's compassion moves Prospero to forgive his enemies. Caliban Prospero's unwilling slave, son of the deceased witch Sycorax. Initially friendly with Prospero, Caliban grows bitter, feeling enslaved despite being educated by Prospero. He symbolizes colonization and the clash between natives and explorers. Miranda Prospero's daughter and rightful princess of Milan. Isolated on the island, Miranda is compassionate and falls in love with Ferdinand, whom…