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The Tempest William Shakespeare

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The Tempest William Shakespeare
Act one begins at sea with the storm, which gives the play its title. The King of Naples Alonso, his brother Sebastian, the Duke of Milan Antonio and the other mariners begin to fear for their lives.

On the island Prospero and Miranda are introduced. Miranda pleads with her father to use his magic powers to calm the storm. He explains to her that he has orchestrated the entire event and assures her that no one will be harmed in the storm. He recounts the story of how they came to live on this island. His brother Antonio usurped Prospero, formerly the Duke of Milan. Prospero had devoted himself to his books and studies; this negligence enabled Antonio aided by the King of Naples to usurp the Dukedom.

Prospero then puts his daughter to sleep and summons Ariel, his magic airy spirit who was responsible for the storm. The fairy assures him that all members of the King’s ship made it ashore unharmed but have been scattered to various locations around the island. Prospero and Miranda visit Caliban their servant. Caliban is described as an ugly deformed beast. His hatred for Prospero is evident. Shipwrecked, Ferdinand the King’s son makes it ashore and sees Miranda. It is love at first sight but Prospero does not wish their relationship to develop too hastily. He imprisons Ferdinand on grounds that he is merely impersonating the Prince.

Act Two takes place on another part of the island where the King and his retinue come ashore. The King laments the certain death of his son and heir to the throne. Gonzalo, his wise and trusted counsellor encourages him to remain optimistic but his brother Sebastian deepens his despair claiming Ferdinand is surely dead. A deep sleep mysteriously falls on all except for Sebastian and Antonio, the current Duke of Milan. Antonio persuades Sebastian that he should take advantage of the King’s slumber and that of his retinue to murder him and usurp the throne. As they draw their swords with murderous intent Ariel awakens the others
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