The Wordsworth Classics’ Shakespeare Series presents a newly-edited sequence of William Shakespeare’s works. The textual editing incorporates recent scholarship while meticulously re-evaluating the material, making these editions both scholarly and accessible.

The Tempest is widely regarded as the most lyrical, profound, and fascinating of Shakespeare’s late comedies. The play centers on Prospero, who has been exiled from Italy with his daughter, Miranda. Using his powerful magical abilities, Prospero seeks to defeat his former enemies who wronged him. However, in a display of mercy and wisdom, Prospero eventually chooses to relinquish his magic, referred to as his ‘art,’ as he prepares to return to the mainland. This renunciation of power is often interpreted as Shakespeare’s own farewell to the stage, signaling his retirement from playwriting.

Traditionally, critics have highlighted the romantic and fantastical elements of The Tempest, viewing it as an imaginative masterpiece filled with beauty and wonder. However, in more recent interpretations, the play has also been analyzed as a deeply political work, offering controversial insights into themes of colonialism and racism. This shift in perspective has given the play a new dimension, making it relevant to modern audiences.

The Tempest is not only one of Shakespeare’s most frequently staged plays, but it has also inspired countless adaptations in film, poetry, and literature. The play’s enduring influence and rich layers of meaning continue to captivate scholars, artists, and audiences alike, ensuring its place as a cornerstone of Shakespeare’s literary legacy.

Key themes such as magic, power, forgiveness, and political intrigue make The Tempest a timeless work that resonates across generations. Whether seen as a romantic fantasy or a sharp political commentary, The Tempest remains an essential part of Shakespeare’s canon, inviting ongoing exploration and discussion.