The Tempest: Act 3, Scene 1 Summary & Commentary

 

Plot Summary / The Story-line

Act 3 scene 1 of the play “The Tempest” is essentially a love scene between Ferdinand and Miranda. Over here in the immediate proximity of Prospero’s cell Ferdinand gets overjoyed working with a pile of logs. It is true indeed his princely nature is somewhat rebellious against Prospero’s mastery. It is in Miranda that Ferdinand comes to recognize an impulse of feminine sympathy for him. This enkindles finally the impulse of love. He declares his love for Miranda. Both of them confess to get united through the bond of marriage. Being invisible Prospero notices everything that is going on between the lovers. Prospero looks on approvingly from behind, overhearing their proclamation of love.

Commentary on Act III, Scene i

The scene is characteristically created in a natural way to pave the way for the hero and the heroine’s union. This is the very scene wherein a further dimension is added to the story. This is similar to the stuff of Shakespeare’s romantic comedy. The action of the story gets accelerated by this loving couple.