At the start of Act IV of William Shakespeare`s play “The Tempest,” Prospero makes an important agreement with his daughter Miranda and her suitor Ferdinand. This agreement sets the stage for the final act of the play, and showcases Prospero`s ability to manipulate events to his advantage.
The agreement in question is made during a meeting between Prospero, Miranda, and Ferdinand. Prospero has invited Ferdinand to the island and has put him through a series of trials in order to test his love for Miranda. Ferdinand has proven himself worthy, and Prospero offers him a deal: if he truly loves Miranda, he must agree to become her husband and take on the responsibilities that come with that role.
Ferdinand readily agrees to this arrangement, and Miranda is thrilled. Prospero then goes on to explain the terms of the agreement in greater detail. He tells Ferdinand that he must promise to be faithful to Miranda and to protect her at all times. In exchange, Prospero promises to grant the couple his blessing and to help them have a happy and prosperous life together.
This agreement is significant for several reasons. First and foremost, it marks the climax of Ferdinand and Miranda`s romantic plotline. By agreeing to marry Miranda and protect her, Ferdinand has proven himself a worthy suitor in Prospero`s eyes. This sets the stage for the happy ending that the audience is hoping for.
Secondly, the agreement reveals Prospero`s true intentions. Throughout the play, he has been scheming and manipulating events to his advantage. By making this agreement, he is able to secure his daughter`s future and ensure that she will be taken care of. At the same time, he is able to exert control over Ferdinand, who will now owe him a debt of gratitude.
Finally, the agreement serves as a symbolic act of forgiveness. Throughout the play, Prospero has been seeking revenge on those who wronged him in the past. By agreeing to bless Miranda and Ferdinand`s marriage, he is able to let go of his anger and move on. This act of forgiveness is crucial to the play`s overall message of redemption and renewal.
In conclusion, the agreement made between Prospero, Miranda, and Ferdinand at the start of Act IV of “The Tempest” is a key moment in the play. It marks the climax of the romantic plotline, reveals Prospero`s true intentions, and serves as a symbolic act of forgiveness. As a professional, it`s important to highlight the significance of this agreement in any analysis of the play.