The Tempest and Post-Colonial Theory: Calilban and Decolonization

The transcript explores the character of Caliban in Shakespeare's 'The Tempest' through post-colonial and psychoanalytic lenses. It discusses how Caliban's humanity is undermined by Prospero's rhetoric and how Shakespeare's work has been used in cultural imperialism. The text highlights the role of Caliban in decolonization movements and examines interpretations by Octave Manoni and Aimé Césaire. It also addresses criticisms of post-colonial readings and emphasizes the importance of these approaches in understanding power dynamics and reclaiming cultural identity.

What role did Shakespeare's works play in British cultural imperialism?

• They were only performed in Britain.

• They were used to support anti-colonial movements.

• They were banned in colonized regions.

• They were used to promote British cultural norms in colonized areas.

How did colonized peoples use Shakespeare's works post-colonization?

• To entertain British officials.

• To adopt British cultural norms.

• To reclaim their own identity.

• To learn the English language.

According to Octave Manoni, what drives Prosperos to become colonizers?

• A quest for knowledge.

• A need for adventure.

• Unresolved issues at home.

• A desire for wealth.

What is the distinction between Ariel and Caliban in Manoni's interpretation?

• Ariel is the colonizer, Caliban is the colonized.

• Ariel is the leader, Caliban is the follower.

• Ariel is the good native, Caliban is the bad native.

• Ariel is the extremist, Caliban is the moderate.

How does Ma Cesare's adaptation of The Tempest differ from the original?

• It depicts Prospero as an authoritarian slave master.

• It removes the character of Caliban.

• It is set in a modern city.

• It portrays Prospero as a benevolent ruler.

What criticism is mentioned regarding post-colonial readings of The Tempest?

• Caliban is depicted as indigenous to the island.

• Prospero intends to stay on the island permanently.

• The colonizer dynamic is a metaphor for theatre.

• Shakespeare's plays are irrelevant to post-colonial studies.

What impact have post-colonial approaches had on Shakespeare's plays?

• They have made the plays less popular.

• They have removed the plays from academic study.

• They have enriched and diversified the plays' creative palette.

• They have limited the plays' interpretations.