The Tempest: Abridged and Illustrated

By William Shakespeare

Enveloped in mysticism and adventure, The Tempest is a tragic-comedy narrating the journey of a man' s revenge on his usurper brother leading to a magical finale. Shakespeare' s writing inspires young minds to contemplate concepts represented by the comic interplay of wise characters, emotional conflicts, and fatal realities. The tale has been retold using simple language and beautiful illustrations to make it easier for the kids to grasp and enjoy. The book also has interesting, application-based and memory-based questions, along with an introduction to the themes in the story for better understanding.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Wonder House Books
• Release date: Nov 5, 2019
• ISBN: 9789390093908

William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare (1564–1616) is arguably the most famous playwright to ever live. Born in England, he attended grammar school but did not study at a university. In the 1590s, Shakespeare worked as partner and performer at the London-based acting company, the King’s Men. His earliest plays were Henry VI and Richard III, both based on the historical figures. During his career, Shakespeare produced nearly 40 plays that reached multiple countries and cultures. Some of his most notable titles include Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet and Julius Caesar. His acclaimed catalog earned him the title of the world’s greatest dramatist.

Book preview

"

Hell is empty and all the devils are here.

"

― Ariel,A

ct

I, S

cene

2

In the raging sea, at daybreak, a small ship was sailing. The storm was turning fierce, disturbing the balance of the ship. Suddenly, the shaft broke in two and blew away with the wind. The trees that had stood upright for years and years couldn't stand anymore in the thunderous storm. They were in ruins; their branches lay broken and discarded on the island nearby. The sky shook with lightning.

The ship looked about ready to sink with the royals on board. The crew was frightened.

The king of Naples, Alonso, his councillor Gonzalo, his brother Sebastian, Antonio, and other royals stormed into the sailor's cabin. They wanted to meet the captain of the ship. As soon as they entered, the Boatswain sighed. He was quite frustrated with the interference and couldn't stop himself from talking rudely to the royals. He immediately asked them to leave the cabin and stay below the deck.

Old Gonzalo scolded the Boatswain for not respecting the royals. The Boatswain rudely said, If the king is indeed as powerful, then he must stop the storm himself and save all of us. The royals were speechless and immediately stormed out. It started raining heavily, lightening crackled, and the ship was getting out of control. The Captain couldn't handle the ship anymore. The mariners were crying. They were all about to sink.

Far far away, Prospero, the rightful Duke of Milan, was standing on the island with his daughter Miranda. Both were looking out at the storm with conflicting thoughts. Miranda pleaded her father to stop the storm he had started. She was concerned for the mariners and wanted to save the sinking ship.

Prospero looked at her tenderly. He then started narrating the story of Miranda's childhood to explain his reason behind the raging storm. Everything I have done is out of love for you, my dear daughter. I don't intend to harm anyone, only get justice for what we suffered long ago.

But what happened, Father? You always start telling me this story, but never finish it. Please tell me now.

Yes, child. Today, I will narrate the story to you. Now listen carefully.

Prospero began, You must have forgotten the time we landed on this island. You were a sweet three-year-old then. Miranda listened to him patiently, unaware of what was coming.

About twelve years ago, your father was the Duke of Milan, and you were the rightful princess. Your uncle Antonio betrayed us and stole the dukedom from me.

Miranda was astounded. She uttered quietly, I’m in disbelief. This story is heart-breaking. I can’t imagine how painful it must be to recall a terrible past. But I want to know more.

Prospero continued telling her