Ariel is a spirit who uses magic to help Prospero carry out his plans. Given Ariel's evident power, it may seem odd that he would be willing to serve Prospero at all. ... The main reason is that Ariel owes what freedom he has to Prospero. Prior to Prospero's arrival on the island, Ariel served Caliban's mother, Sycorax.

Why does Ariel work for Prospero?

Ariel is Prospero's spirit servant. Ariel became Prospero's slave thanks to Sycorax, a witch (and Caliban's mother) who was on the island before Prospero. Sycorax trapped Ariel in a tree because he wouldn't follow her orders.

How did Ariel become Prospero's servant?

Ariel is an airy spirit who is in debt to Prospero. When Prospero and Miranda first arrived on the island, Ariel was imprisoned in a tree. He had been trapped there by the witch, Sycorax (Caliban's mother). Prospero used his magic to release Ariel then made the spirit become his servant in return.