Caliban

Caliban is the original inhabitant of the island. He is described in many different images, most of which are not complimentary. His character continues to be the subject of much debate and controversy among critics.

Be not afeard, the isle is full of noises,
Sounds and sweet airs that give delight and hurt not.
Sometimes a thousand twangling instruments
Will hum about mine ears, and sometime voices
That if I then had wak'd after long sleep
Will make me sleep again; and then in dreaming
The clouds me thought would open and show riches
Ready to drop upon me, that when I wak'd
I cried to dream again.

Caliban from the Tempest

Essay Topics

Speeches like the one quoted above show Caliban to be one of the most eloquent speakers in the play. Why do you think Shakespeare bequeathed Caliban with beautiful words?

Why is Caliban treated so badly by Prospero? What does Caliban represent? Cite from the text.

Discuss Caliban's song about freedom. What does it say he will be freed from in getting a new master? Support your discussion with citations from the text.

Other characters describe Caliban as a monster, fish, tortoise, beast, etc. Is there someone who does not resort to this language when describing Caliban? Who and Why?

Creative Writing

Imagine you have been stranded on a deserted island and you meet Caliban. Given the many physical descriptions of Caliban as a non-human monster, what would your reaction to him be? What sort of relationship do you imagine having with Caliban?

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