Ariel is kind and caring to others no matter what their circumstances, as depicted in the television series. Ariel has received a mixed reception from critics; some publications such as Time criticize her for being too devoted to Eric whereas others, such as Empire , praise the character for her rebellious personality, a departure from previous Disney Princesses. For your safety and privacy, this link has been disabled. Human via magical transformation Mermaid formerly. This franchise includes illustrated novels starring the various princesses, two of which are about Ariel: Ariel is protective of her daughter, as Triton was of Ariel in the first film. In this version, Ursula is Triton's sister and Ariel's aunt.