In Act III of The Tempest, the themes of servitude and freedom are examined through the characters of Ariel and Caliban, each embodying and contrasting different aspects of these themes. Ariel offers a complex perspective on servitude. As a spirit in Prospero’s service, he longs for freedom, which he expresses through his songs and magic. In contrast, Caliban resents Prospero’s control. Feeling oppressed, he believes he is entitled to the island, motivated by anger and a sense of injustice. Together, Ariel and Caliban illustrate the struggle between servitude and the quest for freedom. Ariel’s compliance is hopeful, while Caliban’s is filled with resentment. Both characters highlight the intricacies of power dynamics and the fundamental human desire for autonomy.

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