Is Justice Served? Yes, in The Tempest
In The Tempest, Shakespeare presents a complex but clear picture of justice being served. For instance, Prospero is rightfully reinstated as Duke of Milan, while those who conspired against him are punished (but also forgivenshowing Prosperos magnanimity). Additionally, Ariel is released from slavery for having faithfully served Prospero. And Ferdinand is rewarded with marriage to Miranda for his good behavior. This paper will show how all three are justly rewarded according to Shakespeares understanding of the natural order and why it should just as well work for us today.
First, there is the main character of Prospero. Shakespeare presents Prospero as a good man who has been wronged. He is a skilled magician and has the ability to control the elements. However, he chooses not to use his powers for evil. He is also a loving father and husband. He shows his love for his daughter, Miranda, by giving her a good education and protecting her from harm. He also shows his love for his wife, by agreeing to take her back even though she has been unfaithful. Prospero's goodness is further evidenced by his willingness to forgive those who have wronged him. He forgives his brother for betraying him and taking his position as Duke of Milan. He also forgives the king of Naples for sending him into exile. Overall, Shakespeare presents Prospero as a good man who has been wronged by others but who still manages to forgive them (Frey, 1979).
Next, there is...
References
Cressler, L. (2020). The Tempest. Shakespeare Bulletin, 38(2), 274-278.
Frey, C. (1979). The tempest and the New World. Shakespeare Quarterly, 30(1), 29-41.
Jones, H. K., & Denman, S. (1875). Notes of a conversation on Shakespeare's"Tempest". The Journal of Speculative Philosophy, 9(3), 293-299.
Shakespeare, W. (n.d.). The Tempest. Retrieved from https://www.shakespearefreelibrary.com/uploads/4/2/1/6/4216153/2010_cbury_tempest.pdf
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