Question

Answer the following question as briefly as possible and with close reference to the relevant text.

How does Prospero prove, “the rarer action is in/virtue than in vengeance” in the final act of The Tempest?

Answer 1

The Final scene indicates the extent of Prospero's forgiveness and provides an example of humanity toward one's enemies. Before he confronts his enemies, Prospero tells Arcel that “the rarer action is in/virtue than in vengeance” that is, it is better to forgive than to hate one's enemies. This is the example that Prospero provides in recruiting everyone in the final scene. It can be proved as soon as Prospero meet Alonso he greets him with good words also he solves his conflicts with him although he had to suffer many years on that island with his daughter. He also blesses Ferdinand by excepting his and her daughter's relationship. It is equally clear that Antonis and Sebastian each lack the humanity of their respective brothers. Propero's humanity is clearly obvious in his treatment of Antonis, who he calls a traitor but whom he declinus to treat as a traitor. These are some of the instances when Prospero proves the above statement.