what does caliban want stephano to do for him

2 min read 28-02-2025

what does caliban want stephano to do for him

Shakespeare's The Tempest features a complex and often debated character: Caliban. His relationship with Stephano, a drunken butler, is particularly intriguing, showcasing Caliban's desires for both liberation and revenge. But what exactly does Caliban want Stephano to do for him?

Caliban's Desires: Freedom and Revenge

Caliban's primary desire is freedom from Prospero's enslavement. He's bitter about his subjugation, viewing Prospero as a cruel usurper who stole his island. This resentment fuels his interactions with Stephano. Caliban sees Stephano, a seemingly powerful outsider, as a potential liberator.

He wants Stephano to help him overthrow Prospero. Caliban offers Stephano the island, promising him both sovereignty and the subjugation of Prospero and Ariel. This demonstrates Caliban's desire for power and revenge. He hopes to reverse the power dynamic, becoming the master instead of the slave.

The Power Dynamic Shift

Caliban's plan is not merely about escaping his own personal enslavement. He views Prospero's rule as inherently unjust. He envisions a new order where he holds the power, potentially ruling with Stephano at his side. This demonstrates a desire for social justice, albeit warped by his own experiences and bitterness.

Stephano's Role: A Tool for Caliban's Ambitions

Caliban presents himself as a guide, offering Stephano the chance for power and wealth. He cunningly appeals to Stephano's weaknesses: his intoxication, his vanity, and his desire for more. He promises Stephano not only the island but also the opportunity to dominate and control others. Essentially, Caliban wants Stephano to become his instrument of rebellion and his partner in establishing a new social hierarchy.

The Fallibility of Caliban's Plan

Caliban's plan, however, relies heavily on Stephano's drunken naiveté and his own short-sightedness. Stephano is easily manipulated by Caliban’s promises. He lacks the foresight to see the potential dangers and the inherent instability of such a hastily formed alliance. This inherent weakness in his strategy ultimately leads to its failure.

Beyond Physical Liberation: Psychological Needs

While the physical act of overthrowing Prospero is central, Caliban's needs extend beyond the purely physical. His desire for recognition and respect is palpable. He longs for someone to see him not as a monstrous slave, but as a being worthy of empathy and consideration.

Stephano, in his drunken state, offers a glimmer of this recognition. He offers Caliban a semblance of respect and camaraderie, something Caliban has lacked under Prospero’s oppressive rule. Though ultimately misplaced, this temporary connection highlights the psychological depth of Caliban’s desires.

Conclusion: A Complex Desire for Change

Caliban's request of Stephano is not simply about physical liberation. It encapsulates a deep-seated desire for power, revenge, and ultimately, a fundamental shift in his social standing. His interaction with Stephano reveals the complexities of his character and the extent of his bitterness toward his enslavement. Though his plan is ultimately doomed, it reflects the enduring power of hope and the human yearning for freedom, even in the most unlikely circumstances. The flawed, desperate nature of his plan mirrors the flawed and desperate situation that drives it.