Character Analysis: Ariel

What does Ariel look like?

It is important to note that the physical description of Ariel in The Tempest is one filled with ambiguity and fluidity. The shape, form, and gender have all become artistic interpretation and "this character has been performed in many different ways, including with several actors playing him at the same time" (Characters - Ariel). Additionally, the character of Ariel has been played by both male and female actors but Ariel is gendered twice with masculine pronouns (he/him/his):

"All hail, great master! Grave sir, hail! I come

[...] to thy strong bidding task

Ariel and all his quality" (I.II.224-228)

It is because of this self-reference made by Ariel and a stage direction that uses "his" that Ariel is often seen, cast, and thought of as male.

What type of character is Ariel?

Upon my research of the different types of characters, I have determined that Ariel is categorized as a Confidant and Deuteragonist.

According to MasterClass, a confidant is a character that "is the best friend or sidekick of the protagonist, [...] Often the protagonist's goal flows through the confidant" (MasterClass Staff). This description easily matches Ariel's character as he is the main servant of Prospero, who is considered the main protagonist of The Tempest, and helps him achieve his goals and plans by using his powers and following Prospero's orders.

A Deuteragonist is often a character that is considered second to the main protagonist, making them the second most important character. This character often acts as a companion to the protagonist or someone that actively aids the protagonist. When looking at the events of The Tempest, it is very important to note and admit that without Ariel, or rather his magic, much, if not all, of the plot would not have occurred. For instance, in the beginning of the play, the Neapolitan ship becomes caught in a storm that wrecks them onto the island for Prospero's plan of revenge - without Ariel this would not have happened. Although Prospero holds control over Ariel, it is Ariel who holds the greater power in the island. Ariel leads the shipwrecked men to Prospero using transformation, songs, and invisible whisperings. Needless to say, Prospero may be the protagonist, but his goals would not have been achieved and the plot would not have moved forward without Ariel.

How does Ariel change overall?

Overall, Ariel's change throughout the poem comes in his relationship with Prospero.

In the beginning of The Tempest, Ariel is a servant to Prospero and does what the man wishes, whether it be creating a storm to shipwreck the old enemies and friends of his master, tricking the men into thinking others are dead, etc. But near the end of the play, there is a turn in Ariel's relationship and attitude with Prospero. This turn comes in Act 5 as "Ariel attempts to convince Prospero that his conjuring tricks have had the desired effect on his enemies. Ariel appears to take pity on the castaways, and he even tells Prospero that his own affections would be tender “were [he] human.” [...] In this sense, Ariel’s words seek to manipulate Prospero in the interest of securing his own freedom" (SparkNotes Editors). This advice to his master adds an extra layer to their relationship and seems to bring them closer as soon after Prospero, being satisfied with Ariel's obedience and wonderful work, praises him and finally sets him free. This represents Ariel's biggest change in The Tempest: becoming free and no longer being Prospero's slave.