But this rough magic
I here abjure, and, when I have required
Some heavenly music, which even now I do,
[Prospero gestures with his staff]
To work mine end upon their senses that
This airy charm is for, I'll break my staff,
Bury it certain fathoms in the earth,
And deeper than did ever plummet sound
I'll drown my book. (5.1.59-66)
Here, Prospero promises to break his staff and give up his magic forever but immediately after delivering this speech, Prospero holds Alonso in a "charm" and later orders Ariel to make sure the seas are calm so the cast can enjoy a peaceful and safe passage back to Italy. So, is Prospero actually ready to give up his "rough magic"?
Quote 8
Come, temperate nymphs, and help to celebrate
A contract of true love. Be not too late. (4.1.148-149)
As a gift to the young couple, Prospero puts on a masque (a fancy, courtly performance with music and dancing) to celebrate Miranda and Ferdinand's "contract of true love." Interestingly enough, in the winter of 1612-1613, <em>The Tempest</em> (along with thirteen other plays) was performed in honor of the marriage of King James I's daughter Elizabeth to Frederick (the Elector Palatine). Some scholars think that Prospero's "wedding masque" was added by Shakespeare just for this performance but other critics say there's no evidence that it wasn't an original part of the play.
Quote 9
Go bring the rabble,
O'er whom I give thee power, here to this place.
Incite them to quick motion, for I must
Bestow upon the eyes of this young couple
Some vanity of mine art. It is my promise,
And they expect it from me. (4.1.40-45)
Prospero doesn't only practice his art for practicality's sake. Like many artists, he wishes to be admired for his incredible skill.