Caliban

Definition

Caliban is a character from William Shakespeare's play 'The Tempest', often depicted as a savage and deformed creature, representing the themes of colonization and the natural versus civilized world. His character raises questions about the nature of humanity and the consequences of power dynamics, especially in the context of colonialism and exploitation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Caliban is the son of a witch named Sycorax and is often viewed as a symbol of the oppressed indigenous peoples in colonial narratives.
2. His character contrasts sharply with Ariel, another magical being in the play, highlighting the differences between servitude based on natural instinct versus magical obedience.
3. Caliban's language and speech patterns reflect his complex relationship with Prospero, oscillating between eloquence and brutishness, showcasing his deep resentment and desire for freedom.
4. In various interpretations, Caliban's character can be seen as both a villain and a tragic figure, challenging audiences to confront their biases about civilization versus barbarism.
5. The phrase 'this thing of darkness I acknowledge mine' is spoken by Prospero, suggesting an acknowledgment of Caliban's humanity and the complexities of their relationship.

Review Questions

• How does Caliban's character challenge conventional notions of civilization and savagery in 'The Tempest'?
  • Caliban's character challenges the conventional notions of civilization and savagery by representing the complexities of identity in a colonial context. His savage demeanor contrasts with his moments of eloquence, suggesting that civilization may not be solely defined by social norms but also by one's inherent qualities. Through Caliban, Shakespeare prompts audiences to reconsider their views on what it means to be 'civilized' and whether those labels are deserved or imposed.
• Discuss how Caliban's relationship with Prospero reflects broader themes of power and exploitation in 'The Tempest'.
  • Caliban's relationship with Prospero serves as a microcosm for themes of power and exploitation within 'The Tempest'. Prospero represents the colonizer who exerts control over Caliban, seeing him as a subhuman entity to be dominated. This dynamic highlights issues of ownership, forced servitude, and resistance, ultimately illustrating how colonial powers can dehumanize those they seek to control. Caliban’s rebellion against Prospero symbolizes the struggle for autonomy against oppressive forces.
• Evaluate the impact of postcolonial interpretations on our understanding of Caliban's role in 'The Tempest' and its significance within Shakespeare's works.
  • Postcolonial interpretations significantly enhance our understanding of Caliban's role in 'The Tempest' by framing him as a representation of colonized subjects. These analyses reveal how Shakespeare’s portrayal critiques imperialism and explores themes of identity, otherness, and cultural conflict. By viewing Caliban through a postcolonial lens, audiences can appreciate the nuances in his character, recognizing him not just as a grotesque figure but as a complex being whose narrative invites discussions on power relations and the legacy of colonialism in literature.

Related terms

Postcolonialism: A critical approach that examines the effects of colonization on cultures and societies, focusing on issues of power, identity, and representation.

Prospero: The protagonist of 'The Tempest', who represents colonial authority and has control over Caliban, embodying the conflict between civilization and savagery.

Colonialism: The practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country or territory, often involving the exploitation of resources and people.