PROSPERO: Ye elves of hills, brooks, standing lakes, and groves,
And ye that on the sands with printless foot
Do chase the ebbing Neptune, and do fly him
When he comes back; you demi-puppets that
By moonshine do the green sour ringlets make
Prospero's Renunciation of Magic — The Tempest
Prospero addresses the spirits of the island, recounting the immense supernatural feats he has achieved through his magic. He ultimately declares his intention to renounce his powers, break his staff, and drown his book of spells in favor of returning to the mortal world.
Format: Monologue · Genre: Fantasy · Source: The Tempest · Author: William Shakespeare · Characters: Prospero
About This Scene
This powerful monologue from William Shakespeare's The Tempest showcases Prospero at a pivotal moment, as he addresses the spirits of the island and reflects on his incredible magical dominion. It captures his profound decision to relinquish his supernatural abilities, signaling a profound shift from a life of control and sorcery to one of humanity and forgiveness. The scene is rich with vivid imagery and a profound sense of closure, making it a compelling piece for actors to explore.
Character Analysis
Prospero is presented here as an Authority Figure and Patriarch, who has wielded immense power over nature and spirits, yet now chooses self-renunciation. He is a Mentor, having controlled the destinies of others on the island, but he is also Dramatic, as this decision marks the culmination of his journey for redemption. At 50-70 years old, he embodies a reflective wisdom, tempered by a resolute determination to return to a more natural order, underscoring his shift from magical might to moral strength.
Why This Works for Auditions
This monologue is an excellent choice for auditions due to its demonstration of emotional range and command of classical text. It offers an actor the opportunity to portray deep reflection, powerful resolve, and a climactic shift in a character's journey, which can be highly engaging for an audition panel. The speech’s iconic status also demonstrates an actor's ability to tackle well-known and complex classical material with nuance and originality.
Best Suited For
This scene is ideally suited for male actors aged 50-70 who are looking to showcase dramatic depth and classical text proficiency. It is particularly effective for drama school auditions, where a strong grasp of Shakespeare is often required, or for agent showcases where a display of gravitas and powerful decision-making is beneficial. Actors who embody the 'Authority Figure' or 'Patriarch' casting types will find this monologue particularly resonant.
Performance Tips
When approaching Prospero's renunciation, focus on the weight of his decision and the internal journey that brings him to this point. Emphasize the contrast between his boastful recounting of magical feats and the quiet, firm resolve of his renunciation. Pay close attention to the imagery of nature, letting Prospero's connection to the island's spirits inform your vocal color and physical groundedness. Allow the monologue to build in intensity as he chronicles his powers, culminating in a deeply felt and resolute declaration of his intention to abandon magic.