In Act 5 of "The Tempest", why didn't Prospero tell Alonso about Antonio and Sebastian's plans to kill him? And because of his decision not to, what adjective would best describe Prospero?

These sites should help you.

http://www.sparknotes.com/shakespeare/tempest/

http://nfs.sparknotes.com/tempest/

I have already been to Sparknotes, but it doesn't answer my question.

In Act 5 of "The Tempest," Prospero does not directly tell Alonso about Antonio and Sebastian's plans to kill him because he wants to test the sincerity of their repentance and their transformation. He believes that their realization of their past wrongdoings should come from within themselves rather than from external interference. By allowing Alonso to witness Antonio and Sebastian's attempt to commit murder, Prospero gives them the opportunity to choose a different path and demonstrate genuine remorse.

As for the adjective, there are a few possible descriptions that could apply to Prospero in this situation:

1. Calculating: Prospero's decision not to intervene directly in the murder plot shows his calculated approach to manipulating events and testing people's true nature.

2. Merciful: Prospero shows mercy by giving Antonio and Sebastian a chance for redemption, allowing them to confront the consequences of their actions and potentially change their ways.

3. Patient: Prospero's patience is evident in his willingness to wait and observe before taking further action, allowing events to unfold and giving people the opportunity to learn from their mistakes.

Ultimately, the choice of the adjective would depend on the specific interpretation and analysis of Prospero's character in "The Tempest."