This image represents Prospero and Miranda’s relationship in The Tempest. Prospero consistently used and manipulated Miranda on the island in order to bring his plans to actualization. The outdoor background is reminiscent of the island, with green plants and water and a clear sky. It’s a beautiful day, which contrasts with the intensity of the subjects.
“Prospero” is standing on the ladder, holding him above Miranda and giving him the ability to see further and know more about what’s coming. Not only is the ladder a tool used to increase his sight, it also represents the ladder of power on which he is constantly trying to climb higher. Prospero wants to be above everyone on the island, and eventually hold more power than them off the island too, and he is willing to do what it takes to climb that ladder.
The strings that Prospero uses to manipulate Miranda, as if she were a puppet, are noninvasive in color in order to keep Prospero’s plans camouflaged to his enemies and Miranda. They’re also soft, not meant to harm Miranda. They vary in degrees of tautness, giving her the ability to make her own decisions with mild guidance in some areas but strongly pulling her in others. The strings are tied to his fingers, rather than any type of wooden device, because his manipulation of her was careful and personal. Prospero’s movements were precise when it came to the moves concerning Miranda because he did want her to be happy, and it was important that she was unaware of the manipulations. He treated his daughter as a puppet but he did so with love and good intentions.
The strings attached to Miranda also represent that Prospero is going to pull Miranda up the ladder with him as he continues to ascend.
Prospero is looking directly into the camera, with a stern expression, because he was always aware of what was happening at any given moment. His plans had layers and different pieces taking place simultaneously. Prospero was always aware and alert, and his fixed gaze looking straight in the lens evokes this. This is especially apparent when contrasted with Miranda, who looks into the distance, unaware of the strings attached to her arms and the camera pointed up at her.
This image showcases Prospero’s strength and focus in his intensive planning, and the way he is willing to use Miranda to get what he wants and what he thinks will be best for her. It brings forth a physical representation of his need for power and how he is going to get there while also caring for his daughter.