In this scene of The Tempest by William Shakespeare, Prospero is telling Miranda about their past. He tells her that he used to be Duke of Milan, until his brother Antonio deposed him with the help of the King of Naples.
- Prospero uses strong, sad adjectives to convey the extent of his misfortune. For example: "me, poor man"; "the dukedom yet unbowed"; "poor Milan!"; "to most ignoble stooping."
- Prospero wants Miranda to believe his story and to feel sorry for his misfortune. He also wants her to understand his choices.
- Miranda is surprised to hear this news, but also sad and hurt for Prospero, as she assumes that it must be very painful for him to tell the story. He succeeds in making her sad for their misfortune.
