Power and authority are often misunderstood to be the same thing. They are very similar; however, each word differs in the way it should be used. Power means the ability to cause or prevent an action. Authority means one has the power to enforce laws, demand, and command. You see two very similar concepts, yet used in different situations.
In Act I of the tempest the two most respected characters that fit these definitions are Prospero and Alonso. Prospero has the power to make things happen in his favor. He was able to create a sea storm inorder to desert his brother Antonio and the Royals from Milan onto his island. Why he chose to create a storm isn't very clear, but the fact that he did emphasizes that he has power and isn't afraid to use others for his plans. Since he has magical powers he also has the authority to command Ariel to do his dirty work. Ariel becomes a sea nymph to carry the men to shore emphasizing Prospero's authority over Ariel.
Alonso, king of Milan, rules over a grand country which gives him the authority to make and impliment laws. His whole cabinent must follow every word he says and obey what he desires for them to do. His position as king allows him to command those who are below him and his power as king can intimidate people to do what he needs. Although he is a king, he is only king of Milan and the boatswain didn't respect him for it. He doesn't care that he is a king because he doesn't rule over him. This suggests that there is a limited amount of authority and power that one can have.
These two characters exhibit characteristics that make them leaders because of their power and authority. They have different statuses in life, but they are both able to get their way. Prospero has it easier because he has magical powers and is able to manipulate certain situations. Alfonso is limited to only his kingdom and the "friends" around him.
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