William Shakespeare uses his plays not only to entertain the audience, but also to provoke them into self-evaluation. The genius of Shakespeare is that his plays can be interpreted in many different ways. The Tempest is not simply a fictional story intended to entertain the audience, but also a complete figurative narrative intended to reflect the art of theater. In this play, each character represents an important role in the alternative interpretation of the story. Examining specific characters and their corresponding role in the theatrical world encourages a deeper understanding of The Tempest's self-reflexivity; which highlights William Shakespeare's struggle to give up his art. The scenes and language used by Shakespeare also help to reveal the self-reflexivity of the play. As the play reflects reality, it also reminds the audience that this is an artistic interpretation and not reality. This dynamic creates an interesting contrast between art and reality; which embodies the importance of the play as Shakespeare's farewell to the theatrical world. Three of the main characters in this play are Prospero, Ariel and Caliban; these characters can be interpreted as representing important roles in theater which are the roles of playwright, stagehand and actor. Prospero is the protagonist and Caliban and Ariel are his servants. However, there is a marked difference in the relationship dynamics between the two servants and Prospero. Prospero's magic is referred to as his art throughout Miranda's play, "If by thy art" (I.ii.1), by Caliban, "his art is of such power" (I.ii. 374), and even by Prospero, “By my art so powerful” (Vi50). This reference reveals Prospero's character as an artist rather than a sorcerer, this...... middle of paper ...... / Since I had my dukedom" (Epilogue.1, 6).He asks the audience to reaffirm his accomplishments so that he can walk away satisfied with his work, “But free me from my bands / With the help of your good hands” (Epilogue.8, 9). reading this play on a figurative level, it is clear that The Tempest was intended to be Shakespeare's final play. Shakespeare uses an allegorical narrative to write about the art of theater. He uses the characters to represent different aspects of theater. using language and scenes to remind the audience that they are watching a play This play demonstrates the blurring and sharpening of the line between art and reality Shakespeare uses his art to reflect reality through various lenses. , while also reflecting his art This self-reflexive play was the perfect opportunity for Shakespeare to say goodbye to writing and theater...