The Tempest · Chapter
Scene II explained
Caliban, Stephano, and Trinculo plot to kill Prospero by first seizing his books, with Caliban urging Stephano to take Miranda as his queen.
What happens
Caliban, Stephano, and Trinculo plot to kill Prospero by first seizing his books, with Caliban urging Stephano to take Miranda as his queen. Ariel, invisible, thwarts their plan by playing music and accusing Caliban of lying, leading to confusion and a beating for Trinculo. The conspirators resolve to follow the music and then carry out their murderous scheme.
Themes in this chapter
Power and Usurpation
Caliban's plot to kill Prospero and seize the island mirrors Prospero's own usurpation by Antonio, highlighting cycles of power and rebellion.
Colonization and Servitude
Caliban's subjugation and his attempt to transfer allegiance to Stephano illustrate the dynamics of colonial servitude and resistance.
Magic and Illusion
Ariel's invisible interference and the 'sounds and sweet airs' of the island demonstrate Prospero's magical control over the environment and the conspirators.
Characters to notice
- Caliban
Plots with Stephano and Trinculo to murder Prospero, emphasizing the need to burn his books first; shows fear and awe of the island's sounds, yet remains loyal to Stephano.
- Stephano
Drunk and ambitious, agrees to kill Prospero and make himself king, with Miranda as queen; beats Trinculo for interrupting Caliban's tale.
- Trinculo
Jester who mocks Caliban and Stephano, but is beaten by Stephano for allegedly lying; follows the plot reluctantly.
- Ariel
Invisible, accuses Caliban of lying and plays music to lead the conspirators astray, reporting their plan to Prospero.
- Prospero
Referenced as the target of the plot; his books are the key to his power, and his daughter Miranda is coveted by Stephano.
Key passages
“Remember First to possess his books; for without them He’s but a sot, as I am, nor hath not One spirit to command”
Caliban insists that Stephano must seize Prospero's books first, because without them Prospero is powerless and cannot command his spirits.
Highlights the source of Prospero's power and the key to overthrowing him.
“Be not afeard; the isle is full of noises, Sounds and sweet airs, that give delight and hurt not.”
Caliban reassures Stephano that the island's mysterious sounds are harmless and even pleasurable.
Reveals Caliban's deep connection to the island's natural magic, contrasting with his savage portrayal.
“I am subject to a tyrant, a sorcerer, that by his cunning hath cheated me of the island.”
Caliban describes Prospero as a tyrant who used sorcery to steal the island from him.
Caliban's perspective on his own dispossession and justification for rebellion.