Ariel

Definition

Ariel is a spirit and servant of Prospero in Shakespeare's play The Tempest, embodying the themes of magic, art, and illusion. As a magical being, Ariel represents the transformative power of nature and the supernatural, often executing Prospero's commands through enchanting illusions and manipulating events on the island. This character showcases the interplay between control and freedom, as Ariel longs for liberation from servitude while also fulfilling the role of an agent of change.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ariel is portrayed as a delicate and airy spirit, often described using imagery related to lightness and ethereality, emphasizing their otherworldly nature.
2. Throughout the play, Ariel performs various magical tasks such as conjuring storms, causing shipwrecks, and creating illusions to manipulate other characters.
3. Ariel's relationship with Prospero is complex; while Ariel is obedient and serves him faithfully, there is an underlying desire for freedom that drives much of their interaction.
4. The character of Ariel reflects the theme of liberation versus control, as their longing for autonomy contrasts with Prospero's need for order and power.
5. Ariel's final act of service leads to their release from servitude, symbolizing the ultimate reconciliation between magic and human will.

Review Questions

• How does Ariel's character illustrate the themes of control and freedom in The Tempest?
  • Ariel's character highlights the tension between control and freedom through their relationship with Prospero. While Ariel dutifully carries out Prospero's commands using magic, their longing for liberation serves as a reminder of the costs of servitude. This dynamic reflects the broader themes in The Tempest, where characters navigate power struggles and personal desires.
• In what ways does Ariel contribute to the use of illusion in The Tempest, and how does this impact other characters?
  • Ariel significantly contributes to the theme of illusion in The Tempest by creating magical experiences that manipulate the perceptions of other characters. Through enchanting performances—such as appearing as a harpy or creating visions—Ariel influences the actions and emotions of others, leading them toward self-discovery or realization. This use of illusion underscores the transformative power of art and magic in shaping reality.
• Evaluate how Ariel's desire for freedom contrasts with Prospero's use of magic throughout The Tempest, particularly in relation to their ultimate outcomes.
  • Ariel's desire for freedom serves as a poignant contrast to Prospero's control through magic. While Prospero uses his powers to exert influence over others and orchestrate events on the island, Ariel yearns for autonomy from servitude. Ultimately, Ariel's release at the end signifies a resolution that aligns with themes of reconciliation and liberation. This outcome emphasizes the complex interplay between power, responsibility, and the quest for personal freedom within the narrative.

Related terms

Prospero:

The protagonist of The Tempest, Prospero is a sorcerer who uses magic to control the island and its inhabitants, including Ariel.

Caliban:

A deformed creature and servant to Prospero, representing the darker side of nature and human instinct in contrast to Ariel's ethereal qualities.

Illusion: A central theme in The Tempest, illusion refers to the deceptive appearances and magical transformations orchestrated by characters like Prospero and Ariel.