Rene Descartes’ statement, “I at least know for certain that nothing is certain” perfectly illustrates the multiple problems that arise when all rational beings realize that their senses can deceive them and that the very foundation of their knowledge is based on the assumption that everything they encounter is real. Thankfully, being aware of the problem is the first step in solving it. The juxtaposition of Rene Descartes and William Shakespeare reveals a difference of opinion when they set out to examine and solve the problems that arise from the doubtfulness of the knowledge provided by our senses. Although both authors agree on the importance of solitude and the potential problem of an evil genius manipulating our senses, Descartes’ use
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During the first interaction between Prospero and Miranda in The Tempest, Prospero explains “I thus neglecting worldly ends, all dedicated to closeness, and the bettering of my mind with that which, but by being so retired, o 'er prized all popular rate, in my false brother awaked an evil nature” (The Tempest, p.9). The regretful tone of “ I thus neglecting worldly ends” points out that Prospero laments his decision to trust his brother; however, the strong word choice of “dedicated” emphasizes Prospero 's commitment to expanding his mind through contemplation and solitude. Similarly, Descartes endeavours to “free his mind of all cares [...]” by “withdrawing into solitude” and beginning the “demolition of [his] opinions” (Meditations on First Philosophy, p.59). The aggressive tone of “demolition of [his] opinions” illustrates Descartes’ desire to start from scratch and rebuild his knowledge. Moreover, its is important to note that Descartes is using “opinions” as a general term when referring to all of his previously held beliefs, including all the knowledge he gained through educational and personal experience. Both authors emphasize the effectiveness of solitude and gaining knowledge, whether it comes from building upon what you know or completely starting anew. Unfortunately, …show more content…
After being deceived by his brother and cast away to an island, Prospero was able to apply his knowledge and gain experience. Caliban urges his comrades to “ first possess his books; for without he’s but a sot, as I am, nor hath not one spirit to command” (The Tempest, p.53). The strict tone of “first possess his books” exemplifies how Prospero gains the knowledge of magic from his books, but only when he applies his knowledge is he able to command spirits and pose a threat to Caliban. When Miranda and Ferdinand see each other for the first time they instantly fall in love and Prospero reveals, “It goes on, I see, as my soul prompts it” (The Tempest, p.23). The pronoun usage in “my soul prompts it” indicates that Prospero is the one manipulating the couple’s emotions. In addition, Shakespeare’s use of magic in the play suggests that, because Prospero used what he learned from contemplation and gained experience, he now has the ability to be the manipulator rather than be manipulated. The irony of Miranda’s exclamation “O brave new world!” (The Tempest, p.78) further illustrates Shakespeare’s belief that experience is the only way to deal with doubt, which Miranda lacks due to her estrangement from the outside world. Miranda’s lack of
During the first interaction between Prospero and Miranda in The Tempest, Prospero explains “I thus neglecting worldly ends, all dedicated to closeness, and the bettering of my mind with that which, but by being so retired, o 'er prized all popular rate, in my false brother awaked an evil nature” (The Tempest, p.9). The regretful tone of “ I thus neglecting worldly ends” points out that Prospero laments his decision to trust his brother; however, the strong word choice of “dedicated” emphasizes Prospero 's commitment to expanding his mind through contemplation and solitude. Similarly, Descartes endeavours to “free his mind of all cares [...]” by “withdrawing into solitude” and beginning the “demolition of [his] opinions” (Meditations on First Philosophy, p.59). The aggressive tone of “demolition of [his] opinions” illustrates Descartes’ desire to start from scratch and rebuild his knowledge. Moreover, its is important to note that Descartes is using “opinions” as a general term when referring to all of his previously held beliefs, including all the knowledge he gained through educational and personal experience. Both authors emphasize the effectiveness of solitude and gaining knowledge, whether it comes from building upon what you know or completely starting anew. Unfortunately, …show more content…
After being deceived by his brother and cast away to an island, Prospero was able to apply his knowledge and gain experience. Caliban urges his comrades to “ first possess his books; for without he’s but a sot, as I am, nor hath not one spirit to command” (The Tempest, p.53). The strict tone of “first possess his books” exemplifies how Prospero gains the knowledge of magic from his books, but only when he applies his knowledge is he able to command spirits and pose a threat to Caliban. When Miranda and Ferdinand see each other for the first time they instantly fall in love and Prospero reveals, “It goes on, I see, as my soul prompts it” (The Tempest, p.23). The pronoun usage in “my soul prompts it” indicates that Prospero is the one manipulating the couple’s emotions. In addition, Shakespeare’s use of magic in the play suggests that, because Prospero used what he learned from contemplation and gained experience, he now has the ability to be the manipulator rather than be manipulated. The irony of Miranda’s exclamation “O brave new world!” (The Tempest, p.78) further illustrates Shakespeare’s belief that experience is the only way to deal with doubt, which Miranda lacks due to her estrangement from the outside world. Miranda’s lack of