Discuss the theme of colonization as depicted in Shakespeare’s “The Tempest.” 

Answer

Discuss the theme of colonization as depicted in Shakespeare’s “The Tempest.” 

“The Tempest” (1623) by William Shakespeare (1564-1616) discusses various themes. The theme of colonization is prominent in this play. The setting of the play is a remote island. The play points out the encounter between the colonizer and the colonized. It sheds light on power struggles, dominance, and the consequences of colonization. Let us discuss this in the following manner.

The Island as a Symbol of Colonization: The island in “The Tempest” serves as a microcosm of the colonial world. Prospero, the exiled Duke of Milan, takes control of the island upon his arrival. His rule over Caliban mirrors the colonial domination seen throughout the play. He is a native inhabitant. The island symbolizes the land that colonizers exploited for their gain.

Prospero’s Conquest and Control: Being banished by his brother, Prospero’s arrival on the island marks the beginning of colonization. He usurps control from the original inhabitant, Caliban. He imposes his authority on this remote island with his magical power. He says that

“I have with such provision in mine art.”

Prospero’s actions reflect those of historical colonizers who claimed lands inhabited by the natives. They established dominance over the natives through force and manipulation. 

Caliban as the Colonized: Caliban represents the colonized native population. Prospero and other characters depict him as uncivilized and barbaric. It reflects the dehumanization of the natives by colonial powers. Caliban’s control and exploitation by Prospero highlight the oppressive nature of colonization. Caliban says-

“This island’s mine, by Sycorax my mother,

Which thou tak’st from me.”

This line proves Caliban’s plight.

Ariel as a Submissive Spirit: Ariel serves as another metaphor for colonization. Ariel is a spirit enslaved by Prospero. Prospero poses control over Ariel through magic. Ariel becomes extremely submissive to Prospero. He says that

“All hail, great master! grave sir, hail! I come 

To answer thy best pleasure; be’t to fly, 

To swim, to dive into the fire….”

Ariel’s plight reflects the subjugation of indigenous peoples and other marginalized groups under colonial rule. Their voices and authority are suppressed for the benefit of the colonizers.

The Tempest as a Symbol of Disruption: The titular tempest represents the disruptive force of colonization. Just as the storm wreaks havoc on the island and its inhabitants, colonization disrupts the lives and cultures of indigenous peoples. The tempest serves as a metaphor for the violent imposition of colonial power and the resulting chaos and destruction.

The Quest for Liberation: Throughout the play, there are hints of resistance and rebellion against colonial oppression. Caliban envies Prospero’s rule and longs for freedom, while Ariel seeks liberation from his servitude. He says that 

Let me remember thee what thou hast promised, which is not yet performed by me.

Prospero replies that 

“How now? Moody? What is ’t thou canst demand?”

Then Ariel mentions that 

“My liberty.”

Their struggles for autonomy mirror the resistance movements that arose in colonial contexts. Indigenous peoples and enslaved individuals fought against their oppressors in pursuit of freedom and self-determination.

In conclusion, in “The Tempest,” Shakespeare points out the theme of colonization through the interactions between Prospero, Caliban, Ariel, and other characters. Through these relationships and the symbolism of the island and the tempest, the play highlights the oppressive nature of colonization, the dehumanization of the colonized, and the quest for liberation and autonomy. It serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of colonialism on individuals and societies throughout history.