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How Does Shakespeare Present Antonio In The Tempest

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Throughout the entirety of The Tempest Shakespeare creates many characters which contrast in their views and actions. These characters can help the reader understand the values in which society at that time placed highly and about Shakespeare’s particular views and beliefs. Two characters which hold significant importance throughout the play, yet contrast each other significantly are the characters of Gonzalo and Antonio. Gonzalo is a kind old man who is loyal and trustworthy. While Antonio is a power hungry traitor, having stolen Prospero’s dukedom. These two characters reveal stark differences in the society at the time, one represents the morals and kindness that human kind has the potential to show while the other represents the sinful, greedy and treacherous nature which is so inherent in mankind. Throughout the entirety of The Tempest, Gonzalo represents the Christian values and morals that were considered proper at the time, specifically those of kindness and honour. Gonzalo is indicative of wisdom, both in actions and appearance. Usually when the play is performed, Gonzalo is portrayed as an old man, which usually has connotations to wisdom. While we see some of his characteristics represented through his appearance much more of character is shown through his actions. Early on in the play Gonzalo is represented to be different from the other courtiers. This is clearly illustrated in the opening scene, while also perfectly exemplifying Gonzalo’s good character. As the tempest is enveloping the ship many of the courtiers …show more content…

Gonzalo who represents the virtues and the expectations of a Christian man at the time, contrasting that with the sinister and treacherous nature of Antonio always looking for a way to change his status and upset the natural balance. It is through these character that we gain insight into the nature of the time and

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