Ratings115
Average rating3.9
The Signet Classics edition of William Shakespeare’s fantastical play that combines elements of tragedy and comedy.
Prospero, sorcerer and rightful Duke of Milan, along with his daughter Miranda, has lived on an island for many years since his position was usurped by his brother Antonio. Then, as Antonio’s ship passes near the island one day, Prospero conjures up a terrible storm…
This revised Signet Classics edition includes unique features such as:
• An overview of Shakespeare’s life, world, and theater
• A special introduction to the play by the editor, Robert Langbaum
• Selections from William Strachey, Sylvester Jourdain, Montaigne, and Ovid, sources from which Shakespeare derived The Tempest
• Dramatic criticism from Samuel Taylor Coleridge, E.M.W. Tillyard, Lori Jerrell, and others
• A comprehensive stage and screen history of notable actors, directors, and productions
• Text, notes, and commentaries printed in the clearest, most readable text
• And more…
Source: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/326570/the-tempest-by-william-shakespeare-edited-by-robert-langbaum/9781101142295
Reviews with the most likes.
what I love from Shakespeare is his way of finish his plays. The end was great because I don't like the happy endings. The story was funny and I loved Ariel.
Brother steals dukedom
former duke steals an island
island heir licks feet.
Spoiler alert (lol it's ancient) if you have never read The Tempest:
Prospero really asked a lot of Ariel in this play. I don't know where my frame of reference is, maybe it's living in this pro-union moment in America; solidarity to the workers always whether they're humans or little island sprites. But I was just shocked at what Ariel was putting up with and I was absolutely certain that Ariel was going to lose his/her/its shit and murder Prospero. Like I was just bracing myself for a rampaging sprite.
Anyway, I completely misread the vibe of this 400 year old play. I just finished it and Prospero has a huge change of heart, sets Ariel and Caliban free, and willingly gives up his magic. There's also a love story.
It's pretty good. It's quotable.
When you let your brother run your dukedom so you can read enough books to become a wizard and get double-crossed by him and later shipwreck him using spirit magic