Nature and society are frequently contrasted in The Tempest, and they occasionally conflict. Trace this theme throughout the course of the play

The pastoral or natural is frequently compared with "civilization" in the Tempest. Consider Gonzalo's utopian speech in Act 1, Scene 1 where he claims that man is more noble living in a natural state. This idea is echoed throughout the play. It is after all only on the island where the wrongs of civilization are finally put right. At the same time Prospero has "civilized" the natural world by putting it under his control. This juxtaposition is further complicated with the question whether man can ever be a part of the natural world or whether (Biblical Fall in Eden) he is destined to turn any place he sets foot on into the unnatural.