19th century Quote by Margaret Atwood
![“One of the reasons [William] Shakespeare is so endlessly fascinating is that you can look at that figure from about 10 different angles: Caliban in Shakespeare's day was probably viewed as a sort of comic, barbarian type, but into the 19th century there were productions where Caliban was the hero…” quote by Margaret Atwood](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ac2/margaret-atwood-40_19th-century_one-of-the-reasons-william-shakespeare-i_412840.jpg)
“One of the reasons [William] Shakespeare is so endlessly fascinating is that you can look at that figure from about 10 different angles: Caliban in Shakespeare's day was probably viewed as a sort of comic, barbarian type, but into the 19th century there were productions where Caliban was the hero. He's a potential rapist of a minor. Is that a good thing? No, it is not. On the other hand, Prospero's got him cooped up in a cave and tortures him if he doesn't do what Prospero wants. Is that a good thing? No. Shakespeare doesn't let you off easy.”
About This Quote
Source Play: The Tempest by William Shakespeare, c. 1611
Shakespeare presents characters with ambiguous morality, forcing audiences to confront uncomfortable ethical questions.
In simple terms: Shakespeare shows complex characters that challenge easy judgments.
Key Takeaway
Recognize moral ambiguity and question assumptions.
Themes
morality
interpretation
character
ethics
literature
Mood
thoughtful
provocative
Type
analytical
critical
interpretive
When to use this quote
- theatre studies
- literary analysis
- ethical debates
- education
- creative writing
Key Concepts
ambivalence
power dynamics
colonialism
identity
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How does ambiguity affect your view of right and wrong?
- What responsibilities do creators have when depicting morally complex figures?
A Different Perspective
Shakespeare's nuanced portrayals may be oversimplified in modern adaptations.
![“. . . Luddites were those frenzied traditionalists of the early 19th century who toured [England] wrecking new weaving machines on the theory that if they were destroyed . . . old jobs and old ways of life could be preserved . . . At certain times in his life each man is tempted to become a…” quote by James A. Michener](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/182/james-a-michener-1627_19th-century_luddites-were-those-frenzied-traditional_76909.jpg)
