Discuss the theme of master and slave in the tempest by shakespeare
Answers
The relationship between master and slave is embraced by Shakespeare in his play The Tempest. Conflicts and complexities of authority are portrayed by the characters Prospero and Caliban. As one gains power, the other loses it. In the play, Prospero rises to power, while Caliban loses it. The legitimacy of Prospero’s authority over Caliban is, however, questionable. What gives Prospero the power over Caliban? What are the reasons that Caliban should obey his masters’ orders? These questions can be answered through investigating the possession of the island, the justice of punishing Caliban, and Prospero’s right to use or abuse his power.
One of the reasons for …show more content…
Along with the possesion of the island he assumes control of whatever and whoever inhabits the island. This trend is also seen in the numerous accounts of European settlers voyaging to the New World and capturing the natives to use them as slaves. Antonio Vieira, a Jesuit father, condemned this and believed that it was God’s will for slaves to be free and anyone who takes away one’s freedom should go to hell. He quotes, “Any man who deprives others of their freedom and being able to restore that freedom does not do so is condemned'; (from “Vieira’s Sermon Condemning Indian Slavery). Prospero robs Caliban of his island and of his freedom. He has the ability to restore Caliban’s freedom and island, yet he does not.
The innocence of Caliban, however, can also be questioned. Prospero does not enslave him without reason. He demands service from Caliban on the basis that he attempts to rape his daughter. “…till though didst seek to violate / The honour of my child'; (1.2.344). Prospero’s argument is that he tries to educate Caliban and to help him, but in return, Caliban tries to take advantage of his daughter. Servitude is thus Prospero’s way for Caliban to pay penance. Indeed, Caliban should be punished for his wrongdoing, but whether it should be done by Prospero and how much punishment is deserved is not