Caliban as a Sympathetic Character

Categories: Free Essays

In the play "The Tempest", Shakespeare introduces us to several different characters, each identified individually with their contrasting attitudes, nature and prior circumstances that have brought them to a deserted isle in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea. Shakespeare creates characters that exemplify the relationship between human nature and contemporary civilization and the distinction between men and monsters.

The character of Caliban is known to its complexity and numerous aspects, depths and sides to it. Caliban, the only native of the island is a vulgar, malice slave that is often referred to a beast.

He is the son of the witch Sycorax and his Father is unknown, hence associated with the devil and he was said to be "littered" on the island, a word generally used to describe the birth of animals. Shakespeare describes Caliban as a pure product of nature, of whom he is uncontrolled, wild, savage, innocent and uncorrupted by the influence of civilization. He is uneducated, untrained and uncivilized, a creature of the earth, being almost literally dug out of the ground.

Get quality help now
Sweet V
Sweet V
checked Verified writer

Proficient in: Free Essays

star star star star 4.9 (984)

“ Ok, let me say I’m extremely satisfy with the result while it was a last minute thing. I really enjoy the effort put in. ”

avatar avatar avatar
+84 relevant experts are online
Hire writer

Caliban used to own the island, however, was naïve enough to allow a foreigner (Prospero) to enter his most valued occupation and abduct it from him. Caliban and Prospero appear to have had an affectionate relationship, through Prospero educating him and offering him a shelter in his own cave, an intimate favor demonstrating compassion and abundant generosity as well as Caliban showing him all the parts of the island. Caliban takes Prospero's affection for granted and underestimates Prospero's power and magic, accordingly acts in an aggressive manner in an attempt to rape Miranda.

Get to Know The Price Estimate For Your Paper
Topic
Number of pages
Email Invalid email

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy. We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

"You must agree to out terms of services and privacy policy"
Write my paper

You won’t be charged yet!

This causes the reader to be repulsed by his disgusting behavior, almost sensing animosity that Caliban does not display the minimal appreciation of Prospero's considerable kindness. At this point, the reader can easily understand why Prospero treats him so poorly, and almost feel as if he deserves to be treated in such way, that he was not accounted and aware of the consequences that accompany such action and therefore had brought his situation upon himself. Consequently, the question remains, if Caliban had controlled his impulses, and held back his barbarous instincts, would he really had found himself in a better- off situation, or is being mistreated a part of his nature and fate?

Updated: Oct 30, 2020
Cite this page

Caliban as a Sympathetic Character. (2016, Sep 28). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/caliban-as-a-sympathetic-character-essay

Caliban as a Sympathetic Character essay
Live chat  with support 24/7

👋 Hi! I’m your smart assistant Amy!

Don’t know where to start? Type your requirements and I’ll connect you to an academic expert within 3 minutes.

get help with your assignment