To err is human, to forgive divine.Write a 600- 1000 word essay on this question in relation to Act 5 Scene 1

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‘To err is human, to forgive divine”. What does this saying mean to you? Write 600-1000 word essay on this question in relation to Act 5 Scene 1

“To err is human, to forgive for divine” is a quote which I indeed hold close to heart. It is human nature to make mistakes and although admittedly apologizing can be difficult process at times, it takes a bigger person to be able to forgive and move on. The ability to forgive, is one ultimately God does best in his divine mercy, and people with said ability to forgive wholeheartedly  are people who are said to have this Godlike, divine ability.

Every person commits mistakes, some believe this is due to our power of reasoning which is said to be very limited, hence resulting in mistakes being committed. In ‘The Tempest’ by William Shakespeare, there are many various situations that illustrate the flaws in human nature when mistakes are committed by characters in the play.

For example, Prospero takes his magic away for good when he feels guilty for Alonso and his crew :- By my so potent art. But this rough magic /I here abjure, and, when I have required /Some heavenly music, which even now I do, 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 /'ll drown my book. (Act V Sc 1 50-57). He chose to forgive instead of revenge :- Yet with my nobler reason 'gaitist my fury /Do I take part: the rarer action is / In virtue than in vengeance: they being penitent/The sole drift of my purpose doth extend /Not a frown further. Go release them, Ariel (Act V Sc 1 26-30). Let not forget about Sebastian, Alonso’s brother. Sebastian committed a he sin by allowing Antonio’s twisted words to get to his head in attempting to kill Alonso to seize the crown and title King of Naples. Throughout this act, he seem a little bit guilty for his past actions but not wholeheartedly.

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People commit mistakes not only knowingly, but unknowingly at times. For example, sometimes we may act in a such manner or say something without malice nor the intention to hurt others, but said actions and words may end up hurting another without us being aware of the same. In “The Tempest”, such mistakes have been illustrated by the character.  In this act, Alonso the King of Naples felt very guilty for casting away Prospero and Prospero’s daughter, Miranda on a rickety boat at sea. He felt that he owes Prospero a huge dept. for what he did in his past, ...

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