In Margeret Atwood's "Hag-Seed," where is Caliban?

Question

Margeret Atwood's _Hag-Seed_ is a metafictional retelling of Shakespeare's _The Tempest_. Many elements of _The Tempest_ are clearly recognizable (e.g. Felix is very obviously Prospero), while others have interesting twists (e.g. Felix's daughter is a combination of Miranda and Ariel -- and there are other characters who echo Miranda and Ariel as well). But one iconic character seems to be missing. **Where is Caliban?** There's no clear reference to a Caliban character (as we have with Felix/Prospero, Tony/Antonio, Lonny/Lorenzo...). Nor is there any character who seems to take on Caliban's narrative role (e.g., attempting to undermine Felix, threatening something dear to him) or any of his thematic elements (e.g. being warped and misshapen; being mistreated by Felix). One could argue that the book simply isn't focused on that facet of the story (as, indeed, the book is focused on some elements of _The Tempest_ and not others), but the book's very title is _Hag-Seed_, a direct reference to Caliban. This seems to suggest that elements of Caliban should be central to the story -- -- and if so, what and where are they?

Answer 1

Hi there. While I have not read this particular Margaret Atwood story, I have actually met her in person, and I am well versed in Shakespeare's Tempest, so I am hoping I can still provide some clarity!

Most modern Shakespearean scholars read Caliban against the contextual history in which Shakespeare was writing (not just within the fantasy world where the Tempest takes place). As such, Caliban is supposed to represent "savage" stereotype of native people that Shakespeare's contemporaries would have been encountering in the new world. Caliban's is portrayed as an uneducated, uncultured, rapist who had no purpose before his new master, Prospero, came to the island.

Caliban's role in Shakespeare's theater was solely to make fun of native people - he is largely there for comedic relief and doesn't really add much to the play in terms of the plot or other central themes that are key to the Tempest (such as authorship). His unruly behavior and submission to Prospero gives the play a very pro-colonialism message.

While Atwood may have chosen to take out Caliban for many reasons, his offensive history may be plenty! Margaret is a outspoken advocate for women and other minority folks so I doubt she would skip over this troubling part of history. Hope this helps!