Introduction
In William Shakespeare’s play The Tempest, the relationship between Ariel and Prospero is central to the unfolding of the narrative. Ariel, a spirit of the air, is bound to serve Prospero, who rescued him from imprisonment. But what drives Ariel to willingly serve Prospero and carry out his commands? This article delves into the motivations behind Ariel’s servitude, particularly in Act I of the play.
Ariel’s Background
Ariel’s backstory is crucial for understanding his willingness to serve. Initially, Ariel was trapped in a cloven pine tree by the witch Sycorax. She imprisoned him for refusing to carry out her dark deeds. Prospero rescues Ariel, releasing him from the tree’s confines:
- He symbolizes freedom and the desire to escape bondage.
- He craves the liberation that Prospero promises.
In return for his liberation, Ariel agrees to fulfill Prospero’s wishes, establishing a bond marked by both obligation and gratitude.
Mutual Benefit
The dynamic between Ariel and Prospero highlights a mutual benefit. For Ariel, serving Prospero offers a chance at freedom, while Prospero gains a loyal servant with extraordinary abilities. This relationship is marked by:
- Powers: Ariel possesses magical powers to manipulate the elements, which Prospero utilizes to accomplish his goals.
- Connection: Their relationship is akin to that of a master and servant, but with Ariel’s desire for liberation adding complexity.
Ariel’s role as an instrument of Prospero’s vengeance against his enemies reveals a shared interest, albeit a one-sided control with Prospero often dominating the interaction.
Ariel’s Desire for Freedom
Ariel’s main motivation lies in his yearning for freedom. In Act I, Ariel expresses this desire when he asks Prospero to release him. His dialogues reflect this longing, emphasizing:
- Impatience: Ariel exhibits restlessness regarding his servitude, reiterating the urgency to explore the world beyond Prospero’s island.
- Commitment to Duty: While Ariel is eager to leave, his commitment to fulfilling Prospero’s commands demonstrates a respect and gratitude that complicates his desires.
In essence, Ariel’s servitude is a pragmatic decision. He chooses to ally with Prospero as a means to ultimately gain his independence.
The Nature of Ariel’s Powers
Ariel’s supernatural abilities play a pivotal role in his relationship with Prospero. His powers can:
- Manipulate Nature: Ariel can control winds, storms, and other natural elements, making him invaluable to Prospero’s objectives.
- Inspire Fear and Awe: His ability to create illusions and influence the minds of men allows him to execute Prospero’s plans effectively.
Prospero, with his knowledge of magic and command over the island, recognizes Ariel’s powers and ensures he is utilized in their mutual interests. This dependency further cements their relationship within an exchange of servitude and mastery.
The Thematic Implications
The dynamics of Ariel and Prospero’s relationship explore deeper themes of power, control, and liberty. Shakespeare presents various layers of social hierarchy and the impact of servitude:
- Colonialism: The relationship mirrors elements of colonial power dynamics, where Ariel, a colonized being, serves his ‘master’ in exchange for personal emancipation.
- Human Experience: Ariel’s struggles represent a broader human experience regarding autonomy, service, and the often-complex desires for freedom.
Through the character of Ariel, Shakespeare invites the audience to contemplate not just the nature of servitude but the longing for freedom that exists within every being.
Conclusion
In Act I of The Tempest, Ariel’s willingness to serve Prospero emerges from a mixture of gratitude, a desire for freedom, and the mutual benefits of their relationship. Ariel’s servitude highlights the complex interplay of power and autonomy while shedding light on the human condition. As the narrative unfolds, the intriguing bond between Ariel and Prospero reflects a universal quest for liberty intertwined with the subtleties of allegiance and obligation.
