Question

Referring closely to Act IV, scene i:

What did Prospero tell Ferdinand just before the masque? What did he emphasize and how did Ferdinand answer him?

Answer 1

If Ferdinand felt that his punishments had been harsh, Prospero assured him that he had received ample compensation in the form of his daughter’s hand in marriage. He went on to say that Ferdinand’s love for his precious daughter was put to the test by the difficult tasks he was assigned. He was pleased that the young man had successfully completed every test. “Here afore Heaven/I ratify this my rich gift,” he declared. Additionally, he advised the young man not to laugh at his arrogance, as he would soon see that Miranda deserved all the accolades. Additionally, he forewarned Ferdinand that they would not receive any lovely favors if he defiled her virginity prior to the marriage ceremony. Furthermore, their marriage’s harmony would be disturbed by “barren hate and soured discord.” Words of rage would be exchanged, causing tension and disagreement on both sides. He advised Ferdinand to observe these cautions and heed the advice that Hymen, the God of Marriage, gives to lovers.

In response, Ferdinand expressed his desire for a long life filled with love, serene days, and lovely children. No inducement could turn his pure love for Miranda into lust. “Even the strongest evil urge offered by a suitable place, I would reject,” he replied. He would look forward to his wedding night so anxiously and eagerly that he would question if it would ever arrive.