Gonzalo (The Tempest)

Gonzalo (/ˈɡɒnzəloʊ/ GON-zə-loh) is a fictional character in William Shakespeare's The Tempest. An honest and trusted adviser to King Alonso of Naples, he has a good heart and an optimistic outlook, and is described as noble. For example, when Prospero and his daughter, Miranda, were set adrift at sea, Gonzalo took pity on them, supplying them not only with the food and water necessary to survive but also with those things that make life easier. In addition, Gonzalo is the only character able to see Caliban as more than a demonic beast. Gonzalo first arrives on Prospero's island with Alonso, Ferdinand, Sebastian, Antonio, Stephano, and Trinculo during a storm while returning from the wedding of Alonso’s daughter. During their time on the island, Gonzalo repeatedly attempts to lighten the mood by discussing the beauty of the island. An old, honest lord, he speaks cheerfully of the miracle of the reconciliation of the lords. Some critics[citation needed] see Gonzalo as the mouthpiece of the play, who mirrors Shakespeare's relativist beliefs. The role has been played by many actors.