The Tempest and Post-Colonial Theory: Finding Sympathy for Caliban

The video explores the character of Caliban in Shakespeare's play, focusing on his portrayal as a 'savage' and 'Wildman' and the nuanced treatment he receives. It examines the competing narratives of Caliban and Prospero, highlighting themes of legitimacy, colonialism, and racial hierarchy. The video also discusses the mutual exchange between Caliban and Prospero, the imperialist narratives that justify political authority, and the resistance to dehumanization through Caliban's poetic expression.

How is Caliban initially characterized in 'The Tempest'?

• As a servant

• As a nobleman

• As a king

• As a savage and Wildman

What narrative does Caliban provide that complicates Prospero's story?

• He claims the island is his by inheritance from his mother.

• He claims to have magical powers.

• He claims to be Prospero's brother.

• He claims to be the rightful king of Milan.

How does Prospero justify his authority over Caliban?

• By claiming Caliban is a nobleman

• By asserting a narrative of charity and hierarchy

• By offering Caliban a share of the island

• By acknowledging Caliban's equal rights

What does Caliban desire in terms of the island's future?

• To destroy the island

• To merge the kingdoms and populate the island with his descendants

• To rule the island alone

• To leave the island and explore the world

How does Prospero use Caliban's attraction to Miranda?

• To encourage a marriage

• To justify Caliban's enslavement

• To teach Caliban about love

• To create a friendship

What is notable about Caliban's speech when he is away from Prospero?

• It is silent

• It is poetic and dreamlike

• It is aggressive

• It is filled with curses

How does Caliban's connection to the island differ from Stefano and Trincolo?

• He fears the island

• He wants to sell the island

• He is deeply connected to its material reality

• He is indifferent to the island