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Cover of Caliban by the Yellow Sands: A Community Masque of the Art of the Theatre

Caliban by the Yellow Sands: A Community Masque of the Art of the Theatre

Written by Percy MacKaye

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American dramaShakespeare, William, 1564-1616

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About this book

"Caliban by the Yellow Sands" by Percy Mackaye is a community masque written in the early 20th century. This work creatively commemorates the tercentenary of Shakespeare's death, drawing inspiration primarily from his play "The Tempest." The narrative develops around the character of Caliban, exploring themes such as the struggle for freedom, the transformative power of art, and the collective expression of humanity through theater. The opening of the masque introduces a dark and mystical setting within the cave of Setebos, where Caliban, Sycorax, and Ariel interact amidst the looming presence of Setebos, the idol representing primitive forces. As Ariel longs for freedom from his confinement, Caliban is driven by the desire for power and acknowledgment of his potential. The atmosphere oscillates between the grotesque and the poetic as Caliban grapples with his identity, while the chorus of spirits sings about a collective yearning for liberation. This introductory scene sets the stage for a dramatic exploration of art's capacity to elevate the human spirit above the base instincts represented by Setebos and his priests.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Caliban by the Yellow Sands: A Community Masque of the Art of the Theatre, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • advanced
  • mysterious
  • philosophical
  • symbolic

Percy MacKaye's "Caliban by the Yellow Sands" is an early 20th-century community masque commemorating the tercentenary of Shakespeare's death, drawing heavily from "The Tempest." It centers on Caliban's journey from primitive desires within the oppressive cave of Setebos to a nascent understanding of freedom and art's transformative power. The narrative explores themes of liberation, the collective human spirit, and the redemptive potential of theatre, moving from grotesque, base instincts to poetic enlightenment. Through the interplay of characters like Caliban, Ariel, and Sycorax, and a chorus of spirits, the masque stages a symbolic ascent from primal confinement to the celebratory expression of art.

“From Setebos' dark thrall, my spirit strains, a captive bird that beats against its cage.”

Key themes

The Transformative Power of Art and Theatre
The core message of the masque, celebrating theatre as a powerful force capable of elevating the human spirit, fostering understanding, and uniting communities. Art, in its various forms (music, poetry, dance), is presented as the means to overcome primitive instincts and achieve enlightenment, mirroring the commemorative purpose for Shakespeare.
Freedom vs. Confinement
This theme is central, explored through Ariel's literal and spiritual yearning for liberation from his bonds, and Caliban's struggle against his own inherent nature and the oppressive influence of Setebos and Sycorax. The masque suggests that true freedom is not just physical but also artistic and intellectual, a release from ignorance and base instincts.
Humanity's Collective Spirit and Unity
Emphasized by the 'community masque' format and the role of the chorus, this theme suggests that human potential and liberation are best realized through collective effort and shared experience. Theatre becomes a symbol of this unity, bringing diverse individuals together in a common pursuit of beauty and truth.

Worth discussing

How does MacKaye's portrayal of Caliban expand upon or diverge from Shakespeare's original character in 'The Tempest'?

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