Mariners, spirits, and other courtiers

The common thread through these miscellaneous background characters is that they all further the magic and mystery of the island. The mariners and boatswain miraculously appear untouched by the storm at the end of the play, the spirits constitute the supernatural element of the play, and the other courtiers continuously reflect on the wild and disorienting nature of the island. In doing so, these three groups further Shakespeare’s use of setting to explore themes such as revenge and imprisonment. Ultimately, they help to construct the island as a dangerous and disturbing place which forces the guilt, motivations, and emotions of the characters to surface.