This scene makes me think about how civilization tries to control nature and what problems that causes. Gonzalo’s idea of a “natural” society seems nice, but it’s really a way for civilization to imagine controlling nature, ignoring real human conflicts and desires. Ariel and Caliban react differently to Prospero’s control: Ariel follows orders to earn his freedom, while Caliban resists to keep his own identity. Their choices show how people can seek freedom either by obeying or by fighting back. Together, these actions show the tension between nature and civilization and how people struggle with their place in it.

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