The Tempest

This authoritative edition from The Folger Shakespeare Library presents a trusted version of a classic tale. The Tempest features Prospero, a magician and former duke of Milan, who is exiled on an island with his daughter, Miranda, the spirit Ariel, and the monster Caliban. When a storm brings his enemies to the island, Prospero uses his powers through Ariel and other spirits to confront them. The characters blur the lines between heroism and villainy; Prospero, while seemingly noble, enslaves Caliban and seeks revenge, while Caliban, initially portrayed as monstrous for attacking Miranda, displays a form of heroism in resisting Prospero, reflecting the colonial themes of the era. The resolution comes with Miranda's engagement to Ferdinand, a prince among the shipwrecked. This edition features freshly edited text from the best early printed version, full explanatory notes, scene-by-scene summaries, a guide to famous lines, an introduction to Shakespeare’s language, and a modern essay by a leading scholar. Additionally, it includes fresh images from the Folger’s rare book collection and an annotated guide for further reading. The Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington, DC, houses the largest collection of Shakespeare's works and offers public exhibitions and performances throughout the year. For more details, visit Folger.edu.