Discuss The Role And Significance Of Ferdinand In The Tempest

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Ferdinand is not the most pivotal character in the play, but he aids the progression of the play by adding depth to the character of Miranda. Also, he assists the development of the subplot of Prospero regaining his title as the Duke of Milan. He is only seen to be good character within the play, and is never seen as having any other intention than winning Miranda’s love or being reunited with his father. The character of Ferdinand is a slightly simple one on the surface, as he falls instantly in love with Miranda, however, deeper inside his character there is a more complex being as he is devoted to the cause of winning Miranda, and also has to bear the pain of losing his father. Ferdinand can also be viewed as representing the male gender as a whole, as he is the first male other than her father that she meets. Throughout the play we are shown that Ferdinands love for Miranda is strong and undeniable, “Most sure, the goddess On whom these airs attend”(I.ii.420-21). In the beginning we are shown this, because he willingly serves Prospero, and does not question his new master. This signifies the strong feelings he has for Miranda, because it means that he will do unpleasant tasks if it meas that he will ultimatley get to be with her, he shows this commitment to her by saying “rather crack my sinews, break my back, Than you should such dishonour undergo”(III.i.28-9). This shows that he has a deep attraction her, and will not let tasks such as piling up logs deter him from being with her. The relationship between Ferdinand and Miranda supports Plato’s theory of soulmates. It does this, because as soon as they lay eyes upon each other, they fall in love instantly. Plato’s theory says that each persons soul makes up half of a whole sole, and when you meet the person with the other half of your soul, you feel an instant attraction to one another. This
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