Power, Colonialism, and Moral Duality in Shakespeare's The Tempest: Caliban and Ariel as Contrasting Representations
Overview
This paper analyzes the characterization of Caliban and Ariel in Shakespeare's The Tempest as representations of colonialism and power dynamics. The author argues that Caliban embodies oppressed indigenous populations forced into slavery by European colonizers, while Ariel represents a morally dutiful servant whose compassion ultimately influences Prospero's redemptive choices.
What this coursework covers
- Analysis of Caliban as a symbol of indigenous oppression and the colonial power dynamics between Caliban and Prospero
- Examination of Caliban's character as a mirror to Prospero's insatiable desire for power and his parallels to Antonio's ambition
- Discussion of Ariel's morality through his dutiful service, magical abilities, and compassionate nature toward Prospero's enemies
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The Tempest
Question 1
Caliban, Prospero’s unwilling slave, is one of Shakespeare’s most interesting characters. He represents the natives that European explorers met in far-distant nations. He is described as a savage with deformed features. Although possessing shrewdness and eloquence, Caliban represents indigenous populations forced into slavery by European explorers. Caliban is forced to serve Prospero, which makes him bitter and resentful of the latter: “I am subject to a tyrant, a sorcerer, that by his cunning hath cheated me of the island” (Shakespeare, 3.2.47-48). Shakespeare’s audience would have understood Caliban in the context of white colonizers. Prospero plays the character of the European master, while the enslaved Caliban plays the character of the uncivilized savage. The play revolves around the theme of power: Prospero overthrows Caliban (the rightful owner of the island) and forces him to take orders using violence and magic. However, Caliban’s character is not meant to only contrast with that of Prospero but also mirror certain aspects of power. For instance, his darker side reflects Prospero’s insatiable desire for power. Caliban is keen on overthrowing Prospero and reasserting his claim to the island, which mirrors Antonio’s ambition to usurp Prospero.
Question 7
We know that Ariel is moral because he is dutiful to Prospero. Unlike the unwilling servant, Caliban, Ariel recognizes the debt he owes Prospero for rescuing him from a prison he was imprisoned by Sycorax. Ariel is diligent in his duties and uses magic to implement all commands given to him by his master.