“You taught me language, and my profit on’t is I know how to curse. The red plague rid you for learning me your language! (I.ii366-368)
Dictated by Caliban to Miranda and Prospero, this statement clearly illustrates the tumultuous relationship between the slave and master (or the colonized and the colonizer). Caliban is regarded as a ‘savage’ and feels oppressed by Prospero. Prospero proclaims that he once viewed Caliban as a friend – until he harmed his daughter.
“There be some sports are painful, and their labour delight in sets them off. Some kinds of baseness are nobly undergone, and most poor matters point to rich ends. This my task would be as heavy to be as odious, but the mistress which I serve quickens what’s dead and makes my labours pleasures.” (III.i.1-7)
Upon expressing her empathy to Ferdinand, and offering to take his place, he speaks these words to her, proclaiming his willingness to carry out any task her father demands because he is truly in love with her. The Tempest is deeply rooted in balance and compromise. Prospero had spent twelve long years on the island so that he could regain his rightful rule. Alonso had to lose his son so that he could be forgiven for his crimes. Ariel had to serve Prospero in order to receive his freedom. Ferdinand had to suffer the wrath of Prospero in order to win the heart of Miranda.
“[I weep] at mine unworthiness, that dare not offer what I desire to give, and much less take. What I shall die to want. But this is trifling, and all the more it seeks to hide itself, the bigger bulk it shows. Hence, bashful cunning, and prompt me, plain and holy innocence. I am your wife, if you will marry me. If not, I’ll die your maid. To be your fellow, you may deny me, but I’ll be your servant. Whether you will or no.” (III.i.77-86)
In Act III, Scene I, Miranda declares her unwavering love for Ferdinand. She insists that he marry her, maturing from a meek girl under the influence of her father’s magic into an independent young woman who expresses control over her own future.