The Ghost of Shakespeare in 'Forbidden Planet': An Analysis of Influences and Allegories

The sci-fi classic Forbidden Planet and Shakespeare's renowned play The Tempest share an intriguing and undeniable connection. Beyond the differences in character lists and plot specifics, these works exhibit a striking array of similarities, suggesting a deliberate influence rather than mere coincidence. This essay delves into the intra-textual relationship, supported by the principles of Freudian allegory and the enduring impact of early colonialist ideologies.

Shakespeare and Allegory: A Brief Exploration

Shakespeare's plays have often been analyzed through the lens of allegory, where characters and events are seen as representing abstract or moral concepts. However, perhaps the most noted example of this thematic interplay in modern times is the musical adaptation West Side Story. The play not only mirrors the character dynamics of Romeo and Juliet but also symbolizes themes of racial tension and conflict, culminating in a tragic end. Similarly, Forbidden Planet presents a narrative that aligns with the purist form of allegory, albeit in a science fiction context.

Characters and Their Allegorical Analogues

At the core of both works lies the concept of exile and the power of knowledge. Forbidden Planet's Dr. Morbius, who finds himself in a distant part of the galaxy, shares a striking resemblance to Prospero, the magician exiled to his island. Both characters live in relative isolation, with Morbius bringing a human daughter, Altaira, onto the isolated planet, mirroring Prospero and Miranda. The isolation of Miranda, Prospero's daughter, further highlights her dependence and connection to her father. Likewise, Altaira's only companion is her father, reinforcing the parallel between the two characters.

Commander John J. Adams: A Modern Ferdinand

Commander John J. Adams, portrayed by Leslie Nielsen, embodies the role of a young and capable leader, reminiscent of Prince Ferdinand from The Tempest. His first encounter with Altaira triggers a similar standalone monologue of awe and wonder, as he exclaims, "Oh brave new world that has such creatures in it!" This speaks to the cultural and moral awe that Miranda feels upon meeting a real human being. Just as Ferdinand's words reflect his sense of wonder and possibility, Adams's reaction captures the same thematic resonance, highlighting the renewal of life on a new planet.

Freudian Undercurrents and Beyond

The deeper analysis of Forbidden Planet reveals a richly layered narrative that borrows from Freudian psychology and the colonialist ideologies of the 1950s. The character of Caliban, a brute and enslaved native figure, corresponds to Upheld's Caliban, a symbol of indigenous resistance. In West Side Story, the character of Bernardo (the Latin-Jamaican adversary) embodies a parallel to Caliban, representing the underside or the indigenous people. Meanwhile, Ariel, the Nature Spirit, is paralleled by Robby the Robot, a benevolent and artificial servant who assists in unsettling and enlightening events.

Id and the Inevitable Confrontation

The narrative also draws from the concept of the Id, the primitive mental forces that exist within every person. Dr. Morbius suppresses his violent and animalistic urges, epitomized by the monstrous Id that emerges at night. Commander Adams' discovery of the truth reveals the existence of this repressed Id, mirroring the psychological depths explored in Freud's theories. Just as Morbius grapples with his own repressed desires, the Id becomes a haunting presence that both creates and resolves conflicts, symbolizing the Jungian unconscious.

Contrasts in the Endings

The resolution of both plays, though not identical, share thematic resonances of reconciliation and letting go. In Forbidden Planet, Morbius' initial suspicion of Commander Adams, akin to Prospero's of Ferdinand, gives way to acceptance and mutual respect. The final scenes in both plays see the daughter free and the father relinquishing control, symbolizing a peaceful coexistence between the old and new worlds. However, the mechanisms of this resolution differ. In the case of Prospero, his magic is declared useless; in Forbidden Planet, it is the technological repository of the Krell that holds the key to understanding the past and moving forward.

The Star Trek Connection

The final point of interest lies in the influence of Forbidden Planet on modern science fiction, particularly on Star Trek. The character of "Doc" Warren Stevens, Adams' best friend, reflects the roles of Dr. McCoy (the doctor) and Spock (the science officer) in Spock's reasoning and Spock's intellect. This character dynamic underscores the enduring influence of Forbidden Planet on the portrayal of science and medicine in future space explorations.

Conclusion: Forbidden Planet is a fascinating blend of Freudian psychology and Shakespearean allegory, revealing deep connections that transcend the boundaries of genre and time. Through careful analysis of character dynamics and thematic parallels, it becomes evident that Forbidden Planet not only owes a debt to The Tempest but also leaves a lasting imprint on the discourse of science fiction and cultural representation.