Navigating Margins and Mirrors: The Legacy of Shakespeare’s Caliban Across Comics, Film, and Digital Realms

Abstract

This dissertation examines the multifaceted legacy of Shakespeare's Caliban, tracing his evolution from a theatrical character to a complex icon in comics, film, and video games. Through a comprehensive analysis of Mikhail Bakhtin’s concept of the chronotope, the idea of Shakespeare User, and Foucault’s concept of Heterotopia. This study explores how Caliban’s portrayals across various media reflect and influence societal attitudes towards themes of marginalisation, discrimination, and identity. Each chapter dissects a different medium—Marvel Comics, the film Logan, and interactive digital games and gaming communities—revealing the nuanced ways in which Caliban's character challenges or reinforces cultural narratives about otherness and belonging. In Marvel Comics, Caliban’s visual and narrative depictions illustrate the ongoing struggles with inclusion and exclusion within American culture. The film Logan provides a more intimate look at Caliban's role, highlighting his journey towards self-autonomy and the impact of existential challenges marginalised individuals face. However, video games offer a new dimension where players directly influence Caliban’s representation, thereby actively contributing to the discourse on identity and alienation. This research contributes to academic discussions on the adaptation and persistence of literary figures in modern media. It suggests that the evolution of Caliban's character in popular culture mirrors contemporary societal issues and serves as a canvas for exploring deep-seated cultural dynamics. Through this exploration, the dissertation not only addresses the adaptability and resilience of Shakespearean characters in contemporary settings but also underscores the importance of narrative spaces in shaping and reshaping cultural identity and societal norms.