In Shakespeare's The Tempest, Prospero is always pointed out as a truly moral main character. There are ideas that Prospero's characteristics, his behavior, and the way he uses his magic contribute alternately to Prospero's role as an undeniable protagonist of the play. Although there is evidence to support strongly his status as an unquestionable hero of The Tempest, Prospero still can be viewed in an opposite perspective. Throughout Shakespeare's entire play, it is necessary to consider Prospero's actions and his behavior to have a better view on this character. A careful examination on The Tempest, especially on Prospero, can create a new negative character in the play. In other words, Prospero can be discussed as a villain because of his behavior, his personality, and his abuse of magic. .
Prospero is usually known for his emotionless behavior. Some critics point out that Prospero's behavior is one of elements that contribute to his status as a hero of The Tempest. However, Prospero's actions throughout the play can turn him into a villain. First, Prospero usually gets angry and punishes Caliban. Other critics claim that Prospero just wants to educate Caliban. However, Hiewon Shin says that, "Prospero punishes Caliban not with love, but with hatred and anger which was strongly condemned" (379). Prospero's punishment is so savage that it becomes Caliban's fear. As Shin mentions, "Caliban's fear of his adoptive father's relentless punishment is obvious: 'Do not torment me! O!'; 'The spirit torments me. O!'; 'Do not torment me, prithee! I'll bring my wood home faster' (II.ii.54, 61, 68-9)" (379). Furthermore, Prospero is quick to get angry whenever he thinks about Caliban. David Bishop claims, "At that moment, caught up again in his recurrent error, making the same mistake for the third time, Prospero suddenly, this time fortunately in time, recalls the plot of Caliban and his confederates"(1).
Moreover, in the view of the majority of critics, the play charts the growth of Lear's wisdom, as he learns the emptiness of worldly glory and comes to embrace the love of his daughter Cordelia as the one true value in his life. ... Jaffa's reading is true to the text of the play and also to the impression Lear in fact makes on stage in the opening scene. ...
