Ariel, a mischievous sprite or sylph in The Tempest by William Shakespeare

A spirit of the air and guardian of innocence. He was enslaved to the witch Syc’orax, who overtasked him; and in punishment for not doing what was beyond his power, shut him up in a pine-rift for twelve years

The Tempest

Close to a Mediterranean island a storm overcomes a ship that carries King Alonso of Naples, his son Ferdinand and brother Sebastian, home from Tunis to Italy. Shipwrecked with them are the courtier, Gonzalo, and Antonio, the Duke of Milan.

Ariel uses music to lead the courtiers astray, while Sebastian and Antonio plot to kill the King. Their attempt is foiled by Ariel and all are led on seeking food and assistance, becoming ever more confused as they go....................................

More information on Ariel can be found at the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust