The Tempest - Barbarism versus Civilization :: English Literature Essays

The Tempest - Barbarism versus CivilizationIn Shakespeares play, The Tempest, an underlying theme of barbarism versus civilization appears. Shakespeare creates characters that exemplify symbols of nature or nurture. The symbolism of the characters is derived from their actions. These actions show Shakespeares view of the uncivilized and the civilized, as well as help the reader develop his own opinion of each side. In this whimsical play, Prospero, the former Duke of Milan, after being supplanted of his dukedom by his brother, arrives on an island. He frees a eye named Ariel from a spell and in turn makes the spirit his slave. He also enslaves a native monster named Caliban. These two slaves, Caliban and Ariel, symbolize the theme of nature versus nurture. Caliban is regarded as the representation of the wild the side that is usually looked vanquish upon. Although from his repulsive behavior, Caliban can be viewed as a detestable beast of nature, it can be reasonably inferred that Shakespeares intent was to make Caliban a clement character. During the first encounter, Caliban comes across very bestial and immoral. While approaching Calibans cave, Prospero derogatorily says, he never/Yields us kind answer, meaning Caliban never answers respectfully. When Prospero reaches the cave, he calls to Caliban. Caliban abruptly responds, theres wood enough within. His short, snappy reply and his odious tone, reveal the bitterness he feels from leading a servile life. Calibans rudeness makes him wait like an unworthy and despicable slave. Also, Caliban displays an extreme anger toward Prospero. When Caliban is asked to come forth he speaks corruptly, As wicked dew as eer my mother brushed/With ravens feather from unwholesome fen/Drop on you bothAnd blister you all oer Calibans attitude and neglectfulness is unfitting for a servant. However, his actions are justified. Until Prospero arrived on the island, Caliban was his own king. The island was left to him by his mo ther, Sycorax. Nevertheless, Prospero took charge of the isle and eventually enslaved Caliban. Thou strokst meI loved thee is part of a quote that illustrates Calibans relationship with Prospero before he was his slave. Prospero comforted Caliban and gave him water and berries he taught him how to speak, as well. During this time Caliban loved Prospero and showed him the features of the island, The fresh springs, brine-pits, barren place and strong Caliban regrets helping Prospero as he says towards the end of his speech, Cursed be I that did so Caliban feels this way due to his imprisonment.