When it comes to the characters in William Shakespeare’s play “The Tempest,” Prospero and Caliban are two of the most fascinating and complex figures. They both inhabit a remote island where much of the story takes place, and each character offers a contrasting portrayal of power, magic, and the struggle between civilization and savagery.
On the other hand, Caliban is a native of the island and is described as a “savage and deformed slave” by Prospero. Although he is initially portrayed as a villainous character, Caliban soon reveals deeper layers of his personality and his desire for freedom. It is in the complex relationship between Prospero and Caliban where the true nature of their characters comes to light.
Caliban’s resentment towards Prospero stems from the fact that he believes he is the rightful ruler of the island, and he feels exploited and enslaved by Prospero’s authoritative rule. Prospero, on the other hand, sees Caliban as a creature of darkness and ignorance, something to be controlled and taught. This power struggle is at the heart of their relationship, as neither character wants to fully submit to the other.
Throughout the play, Prospero uses his magic to manipulate and punish Caliban, casting spells and tormenting him in various ways. Caliban, in turn, attempts to resist Prospero’s control and plots to take over the island. Their anger and resentment towards each other create a constant tension that is woven into the fabric of the play.
However, as the play progresses, there are moments when Prospero shows a level of remorse and regret for his treatment of Caliban. He acknowledges that he may have mistreated the native inhabitant of the island and reflects on the consequences of his actions. This shift in Prospero’s character adds depth and complexity to his relationship with Caliban, blurring the lines between the powerful master and the oppressed slave.
For a full analysis of the characters Prospero and Caliban in “The Tempest”, check out this essay: An Analysis of the Characters Prospero and Caliban in The Tempest.
The Relationship Between Caliban and Prospero
In my opinion, the relationship between Caliban and Prospero can be seen as a reflection of the colonial power dynamics that Shakespeare was writing about. Caliban, as the indigenous character, represents the oppressed and colonized people, while Prospero, as the colonizer, represents the powerful and dominant European forces.
Although Caliban is often portrayed as a savage and uncivilized character, it is important to note that he is not inherently evil. Rather, he is a product of his environment and his interactions with Prospero. Caliban’s desire to murder Prospero is not simply an act of anger or malice, but rather a response to the oppression and mistreatment he has experienced.
In the play, Prospero claims to have rescued Caliban from a state of savagery and tried to civilize him. However, this claim is questionable, as Prospero’s treatment of Caliban is often abusive and exploitative. Prospero uses his powerful magic to control and manipulate Caliban, and does not treat him as an equal or an individual with his own desires and needs.
The relationship between Caliban and Prospero raises important questions about power, colonization, and the treatment of indigenous people. While Caliban is clearly depicted as a flawed character, it is important to consider the circumstances and context that have shaped him. It is also worth noting that Caliban’s desire for freedom and self-determination is a valid and justified one.
Discuss the Character of Caliban and His Relationship with Prospero
Caliban is often seen as a symbol of the native peoples of the European colonies, representing their subjugation, oppression, and struggle for freedom. His character is an embodiment of the colonial subject, caught between the desire for autonomy and the need to be protected and controlled by a powerful master figure.
Although Caliban initially serves Prospero, he resents him for taking over the island and subjugating him. Caliban wishes to be free and rule the island on his own terms, but Prospero’s presence and control prevent him from doing so. In many ways, Caliban is a foil to Prospero, highlighting the contrast between the civilised European world and the untamed natural world of the island.
Caliban’s anger towards Prospero is shown in his speech and actions throughout the play. He often expresses his desire to kill Prospero and reclaim the island for himself. However, his attempts are futile, as Prospero’s power and control over the elements outmatch Caliban’s physical strength.
Despite his anger, Caliban also shows glimpses of vulnerability and longing for a better life. He desires to learn from Prospero and be taught the ways of the civilised world. Caliban sees Prospero as a master and hopes to please him, as he believes that this will grant him more freedom and access to knowledge and power.
However, Caliban’s relationship with Prospero is complicated by Prospero’s treatment of him. While Prospero claims to have raised Caliban and taught him language, Caliban feels exploited and mistreated. He criticises Prospero for treating him as a mere servant and not acknowledging his humanity.
The colonial master and colonial subject: Prospero and Caliban
In Shakespeare’s play The Tempest, the relationship between Prospero and Caliban can be seen as a representation of the colonial master and the colonial subject. The characters and their interactions shed light on the power dynamics between the colonizer and the colonized.
“You taught me language; and my profit on’t
Is, I know how to curse. The red plague rid you
For learning me your language!” (Act I, Scene II)
Prospero’s anger towards Caliban stems from the fact that he believes Caliban betrayed him by attempting to rape his daughter, Miranda. This incident serves as a justification for Prospero’s power and control over Caliban, while also portraying Caliban as a primitive and volatile character.
On the other hand, Caliban resents Prospero’s authority and power over him. He feels oppressed and seeks revenge against Prospero: “I’ll rack thee with old cramps, fill all thy bones with aches” (Act II, Scene II).
Throughout the play, Prospero manipulates and subdues Caliban using his magic and intellect. His powerful position as a colonial master allows him to control and oppress Caliban. However, Caliban resists and seeks liberation from Prospero’s rule.
Shakespeare’s portrayal of Caliban reflects the European perception of native inhabitants during colonial times. Caliban is portrayed as a savage, monstrous figure who needs to be tamed and civilized by the Europeans. This implies that European culture is superior to Caliban’s native culture.
The relationship between Prospero and Caliban in The Tempest raises questions about power, colonization, and the dynamics between the colonizer and the colonized. It serves as a commentary on the treatment of indigenous populations by European colonizers.
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| http://www.kibin.com/essay-examples/an-analysis-of-the-characters-prospero-and-caliban-in-the-tempest-a-play-by-william-shakespeare-g1as9zvq |
What Is Caliban’s Relationship to Prospero in The Tempest
When Prospero first arrives on the island, Caliban sees him as a divine figure and willingly submits to Prospero’s control. However, as time goes on, Caliban comes to resent Prospero’s presence and sees him as an invader who has taken away his freedom. Caliban’s animosity towards Prospero stems partly from his enslavement and mistreatment, but also from his desire for independence and self-rule.
Caliban’s relationship with Prospero is further complicated by Prospero’s use of magic. Prospero uses his powers to control Caliban and punish him when he disobeys. This power dynamic between the two characters mirrors the broader colonial relationship between European settlers and native inhabitants, where the colonizers use their superior technology and knowledge to dominate and control the indigenous people.
Despite their tense relationship, Caliban still harbors some loyalty and admiration towards Prospero. Caliban recognizes Prospero’s intelligence and magical abilities, and believes that by aligning himself with Prospero, he can gain some power and protection. However, Caliban’s loyalty is tested when he is offered the chance to join forces with Stephano and Trinculo in a plot to kill Prospero.
Throughout the play, Caliban’s relationship with Prospero evolves and changes, reflecting the complexities of power, colonization, and loyalty. Caliban’s wish for freedom and self-rule, coupled with his recognition of Prospero’s power, makes him torn between wanting revenge and still seeking a master who can protect him.
For a full analysis of the characters Prospero and Caliban in The Tempest, you can read the following essays:
An Analysis of the Characters Prospero and Caliban in The Tempest, a Play by William Shakespeare
The Character of Prospero
Prospero, the master of the island where the story takes place, holds significant power and influence over the people and events. He is a powerful magician who is able to control the elements and manipulate the actions of those around him. Prospero’s desire for revenge is evident in his actions throughout the play, as he uses his magical abilities to orchestrate events that lead to the reconciliation of his enemies.
Prospero’s treatment of Caliban, his servant and native to the island, reveals his abuse of power. Despite Caliban’s loyalty and attempts at communication, Prospero views him as a subhuman creature and often refers to him using derogatory language. This colonial relationship between the master and his subject highlights the exploitative nature of Prospero’s power.
The Character of Caliban
Caliban, the indigenous inhabitant of the island, presents a contrasting figure to Prospero. His language and behavior are often depicted as crude and savage, but this can be attributed to his lack of exposure to civilization. Caliban’s desire for freedom and ownership of the island drives his actions, including his attempted murder of Prospero.
Despite his initially negative portrayal, Caliban’s character allows for a deeper analysis of the effects of colonization. He is a marginalized figure who has been stripped of his land and language by the powerful forces of colonization. Caliban’s relationship with Prospero serves as a metaphor for the colonial relationship between Western powers and indigenous peoples.
| For more analysis of Prospero and Caliban in The Tempest, please check out the following essays: |
| An Analysis of the Characters Prospero and Caliban in The Tempest, a Play by William Shakespeare |
FAQ
Who are the main characters in Shakespeare’s play The Tempest?
The main characters in Shakespeare’s play The Tempest are Prospero and Caliban.
What is the relationship between Prospero and Caliban in The Tempest?
The relationship between Prospero and Caliban is a complex one. Prospero is the colonial master, while Caliban is the colonial subject. Prospero initially treated Caliban with kindness and taught him language, but after Caliban attempted to violate Prospero’s daughter, their relationship turned hostile. Prospero uses his power and control over Caliban to assert his dominance.
How does Shakespeare depict the character of Caliban in The Tempest?
Shakespeare depicts Caliban as a savage and deformed creature, who is described as being “not honour’d with a human shape” in the play. Caliban is portrayed as being connected to nature and possessing a close relationship with the island in which the play is set. He is seen as a symbol of nature in opposition to the civilized Prospero.
What is the significance of Prospero and Caliban’s relationship in The Tempest?
The relationship between Prospero and Caliban carries a deeper meaning in the context of colonization. Prospero represents the colonial power, while Caliban represents the colonized. Their relationship reflects the power dynamics and exploitation that often occur in colonial situations. It brings attention to the issues of domination, oppression, and the clash between cultures.
