'Caliban upon Setebos' is a poem by Robert Browning that reimagines the character Caliban from Shakespeare's 'The Tempest' as he reflects on his god, Setebos. The poem delves into themes of colonialism, the nature of divinity, and human understanding of religion in the context of scientific advancements that challenge traditional beliefs, portraying Caliban's struggles with faith and existence amid the uncertainties of the natural world.
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'Caliban upon Setebos' explores Caliban's perception of a god who is distant and indifferent, reflecting the tension between colonial subjects and their colonizers.
The poem presents a view of divinity that contrasts sharply with traditional, more anthropocentric views of God found in organized religions.
Browning employs a dramatic monologue format that allows readers to intimately experience Caliban's inner thoughts and struggles.
The connection between scientific advancements and religious uncertainty is evident in how Caliban grapples with natural phenomena and their implications for understanding Setebos.
Browning's portrayal of Caliban invites readers to reconsider notions of civilization and savagery, emphasizing the complexities of identity shaped by colonialism.
Review Questions
How does Browning portray the relationship between Caliban and Setebos, and what does this reveal about themes of colonialism?
Browning depicts Caliban's relationship with Setebos as one marked by distance and misunderstanding. Caliban sees Setebos as a being who is indifferent to his plight, reflecting the experiences of colonized individuals who feel abandoned by their rulers or deities. This portrayal underscores themes of colonialism by highlighting the power dynamics and emotional struggles faced by those who are subjugated, ultimately questioning the nature of divine authority in oppressive contexts.
In what ways does 'Caliban upon Setebos' reflect the impact of scientific advancements on traditional religious beliefs?
'Caliban upon Setebos' reveals how scientific advancements lead to a crisis of faith for its protagonist. As Caliban observes natural phenomena, he attempts to rationalize them through his understanding of Setebos, showcasing a tension between emerging scientific explanations and established religious doctrines. This struggle illustrates how advancements in knowledge can challenge individuals’ perceptions of divinity, forcing them to confront existential questions about faith in a world increasingly driven by reason.
Evaluate how Browning’s use of dramatic monologue in 'Caliban upon Setebos' serves to deepen our understanding of Caliban’s character and his existential dilemmas.
Browning’s use of dramatic monologue allows readers to dive deeply into Caliban’s psyche, offering an intimate exploration of his thoughts on divinity, isolation, and self-identity. Through this format, we witness his internal conflicts as he navigates feelings of resentment toward his creator while grappling with the inherent uncertainties about existence itself. This approach not only humanizes Caliban but also emphasizes broader philosophical questions about the nature of God and humanity’s place within a rapidly changing world influenced by science, reinforcing the poem’s critical commentary on colonialism and spiritual dislocation.
Related terms
Colonialism: 'Colonialism' refers to the practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, often exploiting it economically and socially. This concept is central to understanding Caliban's character as a representation of the colonized other.
'The Tempest' is a play by William Shakespeare that features Caliban as a savage inhabitant of an island. The themes of power, colonization, and civilization versus savagery are pivotal for interpreting Browning's poem.
Religious Skepticism: 'Religious Skepticism' is the questioning or doubting of religious beliefs and doctrines. This concept ties into Caliban's reflections on Setebos and the nature of divine power in Browning's poem.