Tempest
In Shakespeare's 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 Shakespeare's 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 spirit 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 down upon. Although from his repulsive behavior, Caliban can be viewed as a detestable beast of nature, it can be reasonably inferred that Shakespeare's intent was to make Caliban a sympathetic character. During the first encounter, Caliban comes across very bestial and immoral. While approaching Caliban's cave, Prospero derogatorily says, "...[he] never/Yields us kind answer," meaning Caliban never answers respectfully. W
In essence, Caliban behaves detestable in the eyes of a civilized society. Caliban abruptly responds, "There's wood enough within. With this understanding, Shakespeare inflicted a feeling of sympathy for those less fortunate. " His short, snappy reply and his odious tone, reveal the bitterness he feels from leading a servile life. Nevertheless, Prospero took charge of the isle and eventually enslaved Caliban. Until Prospero arrived on the island, Caliban was his own king. Nevertheless, his acts are justified by his background and the environment in which he grew up. Sounds and sweet airs, that give delight and hurt not. And blister you all o'er!" Caliban's attitude and disrespect is unfitting for a servant. Caliban committed an illicit act that deserved punishment.
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Acceptance Essays
