The Dual Nature of Ariel in Shakespeare’s the Tempest

Introduction

William Shakespeare's "The Tempest" is a play that intricately weaves together themes of power, freedom, and the supernatural. At the heart of this enchanting narrative is Ariel, an airy spirit bound to serve the magician Prospero. This essay explores Ariel's multifaceted character, focusing on the spirit's yearning for freedom, the complexity of its relationship with Prospero, and its role in the play's exploration of time and magic. By examining these elements, we gain a deeper understanding of Ariel's significance within the narrative structure of "The Tempest.

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Ariel's Desire for Freedom

Ariel's primary motivation throughout "The Tempest" is the quest for liberty. This desire for freedom is not merely a personal ambition but a reflection of Ariel's intrinsic nature as a spirit of the air. Ariel's plea for release is repeated throughout the play, highlighting the character's longing to escape servitude. This longing is rooted in Ariel's past, having been confined by the witch Sycorax before Prospero's intervention. While Prospero's liberation of Ariel from the tree was a merciful act, it also bound Ariel to another form of servitude, albeit under a more benevolent master. The tension between Ariel's service and its desire for emancipation adds depth to the character and drives the narrative forward.

The Complex Relationship with Prospero

The relationship between Ariel and Prospero is one of mutual dependency but is predominantly skewed in Prospero's favor. Prospero relies on Ariel's supernatural abilities to execute his plans, yet holds power over Ariel by reminding it of the debt owed for liberation from Sycorax's imprisonment. Prospero's promise of eventual freedom serves as both a motivator and a control mechanism, ensuring Ariel's obedience. Despite this power imbalance, Ariel serves Prospero with remarkable loyalty and precision, adhering to his commands while maintaining a playful and artistic flair. This dynamic reflects the broader themes of authority and autonomy explored in the play, as Ariel navigates its role as a servant with an independent spirit.

Ariel's Role in the Exploration of Time and Magic

Ariel's presence in "The Tempest" is crucial in establishing the play's magical and temporal dimensions. The spirit's ability to manipulate the elements, such as conjuring the tempest that opens the play, exemplifies the supernatural forces at Prospero's command. Moreover, Ariel's capacity to traverse the island swiftly and invisibly allows for an exploration of time that transcends the physical constraints of the setting. The play's adherence to the classical unities of time, place, and action is cleverly subverted by Ariel's magical interventions, which blur the lines between reality and illusion. Through Ariel, Shakespeare invites the audience to question the nature of time and the limits of human control over the natural world.

Ariel's Aesthetic and Poetic Expression

Ariel's character is defined not only by its actions but also by its language and expression. The spirit's dialogue is rich with poetic imagery, reflecting its ethereal nature and artistic sensibility. Ariel's songs and speeches are imbued with a lyrical quality that contrasts with the more grounded language of human characters. This use of language enhances Ariel's role as a symbol of the imagination and the transformative power of art. Whether appearing as a flame, a harpy, or an invisible force, Ariel's manifestations are marked by a creative exuberance that underscores the play's theme of illusion and reality.

Conclusion

In "The Tempest," Ariel embodies the tension between servitude and freedom, authority and autonomy, reality and illusion. Through Ariel's character, Shakespeare explores complex themes that resonate throughout the play, inviting audiences to reflect on the nature of power, time, and artistic expression. Ariel's journey from captivity to liberation mirrors the play's broader narrative arc, culminating in a resolution that affirms the possibility of transformation and redemption. By examining Ariel's role in "The Tempest," we gain insight into the enduring appeal of Shakespeare's work and its ability to capture the intricacies of the human experience.

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