David S. Ariel

Ariel is a central character in Walt Disney Pictures' 1989 animated film, The Little Mermaid, and its subsequent media. She is depicted as the youngest daughter of King Triton and Queen Athena, ruler of the underwater kingdom of Atlantica. A defining trait of Ariel's character is her deep curiosity and longing to explore the human world, a desire that often puts her at odds with her father and his advisor, Sebastian. This fascination leads her to make a pact with the sea witch Ursula, ultimately transforming her into a human to pursue a relationship with Prince Eric.

The character's development drew inspiration from Hans Christian Andersen's original fairy tale, but the filmmakers significantly altered her personality to be more rebellious and proactive. This departure from previous Disney Princesses has garnered varied critical responses, with some commending her independent spirit and others finding her devotion to Eric excessive. Ariel's visual design was influenced by various sources, and the animation process involved extensive color development, including the creation of a unique hue for her tail named after her. Her story has been further explored in a prequel television series and a sequel film, detailing her life before and after her transformation.

Ariel's character is derived from the protagonist of Hans Christian Andersen's 1837 fairy tale, "The Little Mermaid." However, the filmmakers behind the 1989 animated adaptation, including co-director Ron Clements, felt the original story's mermaid was too tragic. They reimagined her with a distinct personality, emphasizing a rebellious and curious nature. This revision aimed to create a more engaging and modern protagonist. The voice and singing for Ariel were provided by Jodi Benson, chosen for her unique vocal qualities. The development process involved extensive visual design, with animator Glen Keane drawing inspiration from various individuals, including Christie Brinkley and Alyssa Milano. The distinctive red hair color was a point of contention with studio executives, but ultimately retained for its visual contrast and narrative impact.

Ariel is characterized as the youngest of King Triton's seven daughters, often accompanied by her friend Flounder and Sebastian, her father's advisor. Her primary motivation throughout much of her narrative is an intense fascination with the human world, leading her to collect human artifacts and display them in a secret grotto. This free-spirited and often rebellious nature causes friction with her father and Sebastian, as merfolk are forbidden from interacting with humans. Her curiosity frequently leads her into perilous situations, most notably when she sacrifices her voice to the sea witch Ursula in exchange for a chance to become human and be with Prince Eric, whom she rescued. Clements described her as a typical teenager, prone to making mistakes due to her judgment.

Ariel's central narrative in the 1989 film revolves around her desire to bridge the gap between the underwater kingdom and the human world. Her pact with Ursula forms the core conflict, testing her resolve and forcing her to confront the consequences of her actions. The story explores themes of longing, sacrifice, and the pursuit of one's desires against societal restrictions. In later installments, such as "The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea," Ariel is depicted as a mother, showing a protective nature towards her daughter, Melody, mirroring the protection her own father, King Triton, offered her. The television series, a prequel, further explores her early life, relationships, and adventures in Atlantica, highlighting her kindness and compassion towards others, even those considered outcasts.