The acceptance of one’s true self is the embracement of truth, and the motivation for self improvement. In The Tempest by William Shakespeare, the challenges that character’s face are springboards to further potential growth. Prospero, the protagonist, is an important character in this play, because he grows from his past mistakes; he is unlike other characters, such as Alonso, who changes out of guilt rather than self-reflection. In this paper, I will focus on how Prospero frees himself from further anguish by connecting symbolism with aspects of his character growth.
Forgiveness towards others fosters healing. Prospero’s growth into a forgiving person is symbolized through the Tempest that he summons. At the beginning the Boatswain mentions,