On the Origin of Darwin and the Institution of Slavery

In his book, On the Origin of Species, Charles Darwin examines the correlation and progression of the evolution of plants and animals in the Galapagos Islands, and he applied his theories across many disciplines. Darwin's book introduces the theory that populations evolve over the course of generations through the progression of natural selection, the process in which more desirable traits which help an organism survive are transmitted to subsequent generations. He compiled evidence from his voyage aboard the HMS Beagle in the 1830’s, wrote about his conclusions which involved a compilation of his writings from his travels, collection of data, and analysis of the results. Throughout his book, Darwin expands on his belief that species evolve over time and with each change or mutation, the species become better adapted to their surroundings. Darwin recapitulates this idea by stating:

Man can act only on external and visible characters: nature cares nothing for appearances, except in so far as they may be useful to any being. She can act on every internal organ, on every shade of constitutional difference, on the whole machinery of life. Man selects only for his own good; Nature only for that of the being which she tends. (82-3)

Darwin’s doctrine encompasses the themes of William Shakespeare’s The Tempest and Phillis Wheatley’s poem “On Being Brought From Africa To America.” Both chronicle the perspective of two seemingly different individuals who are surprisingly similar upon closer analysis. Both Caliban and Wheatley were able to survive in their respective enclosures because they are able to escape, either by vengeance or by creative expression of thought. Neither is willing to submit to the rule of others, without a fight; ...

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...hem for their own selfish gain; Prospero used Caliban for survival and the Wheatley was used by her “family” for the notoriety of her work. Each chose to make the best of bad situations. Nature cares very little about the outward appearance of Wheatley; she is given a pleasing façade and gentle nature. Because of this, Wheatley is better equipped to blend into the London society of the 1700’s. Caliban, however, is externally hideous and his adaptation resides solely in his acumen. Because of his hideous appearance, Caliban must work as an interloper in the happenings on the island; he will never be viewed as a member of “civilized” society. While Wheatley speaks to capitulation, Caliban refuses to “go quietly,” he uses his words "You taught me language, and my profit on't / Is, I know how to curse" (Caliban 1.2) and he repudiates surrender and asserts his control.