(According to Elizabethan custom, marriages consisted of three separate elements. The virtue and honor of these young people transcends the actions of their fathers and, in this betrothal, lies the redemption of their families. Within a few minutes of the opening of this scene, the betrothal is complete, and Miranda and Ferdinand's future has been determined to Prospero's satisfaction.
Prospero, acknowledging the power he now holds over all his enemies, promises Ariel that he shall soon be free. The three conspirators flee, with the spirits in pursuit. At that moment, Prospero and Ariel enter with spirits, disguised as hunters and hounds. The two ignore Caliban's pleas to continue on their mission and his warnings that their hesitation will lead Prospero to catch them. Stefano and Trinculo lament the loss of their bottles but are much cheered when they see the clothing hanging nearby. Soon Caliban, Stefano, and Trinculo appear, foul smelling and wet.
Prospero instructs Ariel to leave garish clothing on a tree to tempt the men. He then summons Ariel, who reports that he led the three men, all of whom are very drunk, through a briar patch and into a filthy pond, where he left them wallowing. Suddenly Prospero remembers the three conspirators who have set out to murder him and calls a halt to the masque.
The celebration includes a masque, presented by the spirits of the island. Prospero next calls Ariel to help stage a celebration of the betrothal. Recognizing Ferdinand and Miranda's love for one another - they have passed the trials that Prospero has set before them - he offers Miranda to Ferdinand as his wife. Prospero, acknowledging that he has been harsh, now promises a reward that will rectify the young lovers' momentary suffering.
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