The Tempest: Quick question

[Poutine]

Hey all,

Could somebody please tell me what happens to Caliban at the end of Shakespeare's The Tempest?

Is he released from Prospero's servitude or does he continue to be enslaved when the party returns to Italy?

Thank you,
Poutine :wave:

[LitNetIsGreat]

He's released from Prospero's service - Prospero gave his word on the matter.

[Poutine]

Hey,

Thanks for confirming that :)

Have a great weekend,

Poutine

[byquist]

That is Ariel that obtains the promised release after three days. One wonders if Ariel ever will want to return to visit his/her companion, Prospero, of twelve years. Some believe that Ariel is an indentured servant, but I believe that he/she had the capacity to fly away all along. Even she/he may know this and talks about eagerness about leaving, but is honest as far as paying back Prospero for her/his freedom from being stuck in an oak tree.

I think Caliban remains under Prospero's general control and continued tutelage, although Prospero no longer has his wand to stick it to Caliban. It is interesting to speculate how he will behave upon entering civilization. Or, he may finally obtain possession of the island, which may or may not be worthwhile. He would, no doubt, be badgered by harpies and faeries. Maybe, if he left with the retinue, he could eventually be a star in a traveling carnival.

[OrphanPip]

Caliban being left alone on the island would be the best case scenario for him at least. Although, I think the implication is that he remains a sort of slave/servant to Prospero.

[LitNetIsGreat]

That is Ariel that obtains the promised release after three days.

Oh yes quite. I'm not sure about Caliban then, I'll have to look, my impression is that he would have severed his connection with him upon leaving the island, I'll have to check to be certain though.

[mal4mac]

I couldn't answer the question either Neely, guess I'll just have to start again from the beginning when I finish reading the "complete" :)

[LitNetIsGreat]

I couldn't answer the question either Neely, guess I'll just have to start again from the beginning when I finish reading the "complete" :)

Hee, hee, yes, finish and then go back to The Tempest there's certainly worst things you can be doing with your time...

[OrphanPip]

Oh yes quite. I'm not sure about Caliban then, I'll have to look, my impression is that he would have severed his connection with him upon leaving the island, I'll have to check to be certain though.

I just checked the last scene, he does does seem to remain a servant actually, the last we see of Caliban he is being ordered off to fix up Prospero's cell for hosting guest. Not specified what happens to him after that.