The “Tempest” is, of all Shakespeare’s plays, probably the most interesting and in depth, it manages, despite having the most boring scene two in Shakespeare, to combine political intrigue, a thorough discussion of Machiavellian techniques with a, somewhat tinted, love story.
The tale is set entirely on a small island, the disposed duke of Milan (Prospero) has raised his only daughter on this island for many years, by a stroke of luck all his rivals happen to be sailing past his island.
Using the magic he has learned over his sojourn Prospero brings his brother (who deposed him), the king of Naples (who helped his brother) and his old and trusted friend Gonzalo, onto the island. He creates an almighty storm, which is entirely in the minds of his victims, and they abandon ship. The king’s son Ferdinand, falls in love with Prospero’s daughter Miranda, and the two plan to wed.
Amidst all of this there Shakespeare expresses the concerns he has with colonisation, and lightens the mood with the introduction of two drunkards. The play is packed full of warnings to the king of England, and is captivating throughout. Well worth the price of admission.