How does the author cast the heathen sailors in chapter one in a sympathetic light in the book of jonah?

The author portrays the heathen sailors in Jonah chapter one as showing concern for Jonah's well-being despite their own pagan beliefs. They are depicted as being genuinely afraid for Jonah's life and making efforts to save him, which highlights their compassion and humanity. Their willingness to pray to God and take action to prevent Jonah's demise further emphasizes their sympathetic portrayal in the chapter.