In The Tempest,
the character of Gonzalo wonders if it is possible to create a peaceful society
where no one holds power, a utopia. The play is a great example of why human
nature makes this perfect land is impossible. Humans have subconsciously
created the social constructs of class based off of the animal kingdom. There
is a food chain for a reason: survival. As humans, it is our natural instinct
to do what we can to survive. Holding more power means one is more likely to
survive, hence every human’s inherent desire to hold some kind of power,
whether it be conscious or subconscious. When Prospero landed on the island,
there was technically no need to create a power system. With only four
inhabitants, it seems rather pointless to have anyone govern the land. However,
his greed and privilege convinced him that it was his right to rule over the
other inhabitants. This basic desire for power is seen again in Antonio and
Sebastian when they wash up on the island. They attempt to kill Alonso and
Gonzalo because they see an opportunity at gaining power back in Milan. Yet,
they have no way back to Italy to accept their new positions if they were to
kill their companions. Trinculo and Stephano, two butlers for the king, also
plan on murdering to gain power. They are convinced by Caliban to attempt to
kill Prospero to gain control of the island, which as far as they know only has
six inhabitants. Humans are power hungry. Through the The Tempest, Shakespeare provides yet another example of why a
utopia is simply impossible.
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