The Tempest

Text Guides

Character Analysis

Ferdinand

In stark contrast to Miranda, Ferdinand symbolises the role of the court and social hierarchies. Miranda has grown up beyond this royal world (even though she is technically born into it) whereas Ferdinand has been raised as the heir of Naples. This manifests especially in his relations with Miranda. For example, his language, which is stuffy and formal (I mean, he says things like, “Noble mistress, ‘tis fresh morning with me / When you are by at night”) contrasts greatly with Miranda’s romantic dialogue. She’s incredibly straightforward and skips social norms, as seen in her no-nonsense monosyllabic question, “do you love me?”

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