The Tempest, William Shakespeare: Plot Summary
The Storm A violent storm at sea threatens a ship carrying Alonso, King of Naples, and his court, returning from the wedding of Alonso's daughter in Tunisia. As the ship is battered by the storm, the courtiers and crew exchange insults and fear for their lives. Prospero's Island From a nearby island, Prospero, the former Duke of Milan, and his daughter Miranda watch the storm. Miranda, worried about the ship's passengers, suspects her father of creating the storm with his magical powers and begs him to calm the waters. Prospero's Story Prospero reveals to Miranda their past: 12 years ago, his brother Antonio betrayed and overthrew him with the help of Alonso. Antonio arranged for Prospero and Miranda to be set adrift at sea. Prospero explains that the storm is part of his plan to take revenge on his enemies. Ariel and the Shipwrecked Courtiers Prospero summons his spirit-servant Ariel, who created the storm and ensured everyone made it to the island alive, though scattered. Ariel …