The best in this kind are but shadows

The best in this kind are but shadows

In William Shakespeare's play "The Tempest," the line "The best in this kind are but shadows" is spoken by the character Prospero. This line reflects the theme of illusion versus reality that runs throughout the play.

Prospero, the rightful Duke of Milan who has been exiled to a remote island, is a powerful magician who uses his magic to manipulate the other characters in the play. Throughout the play, Prospero creates illusions and manipulates events to achieve his own ends. The line "The best in this kind are but shadows" can be interpreted as Prospero acknowledging the ephemeral nature of his magical powers and the illusions he creates.