Primary Characters in A View from the Bridge
Eddie Carbone: The Tragic Hero
Eddie Carbone stands as one of Miller's most complex tragic protagonists. As a longshoreman in Red Hook, Brooklyn, he embodies both the strength and fragility of the Italian-American working class.
CalloutKey Character Traits
- Fiercely protective of family honor
- Struggles with unacknowledged desires
- Strong sense of territory and possession
- Unable to adapt to changing circumstances
Psychological Complexity
Eddie's internal conflict drives the play's tension. His inability to recognize or accept his feelings for Catherine creates a psychological pressure cooker that eventually explodes.
CalloutBeatrice Carbone: The Voice of Reason
Beatrice serves as the play's moral compass, demonstrating remarkable emotional intelligence and strength.
Character Dimensions
- Perceptive of underlying tensions
- Loyal yet truthful
- Struggles between supporting her husband and protecting Catherine
- Maintains dignity despite difficult circumstances
Catherine: The Catalyst
Catherine's transition from girl to woman serves as the spark that ignites the play's tragic events.
Development Arc
- Initial innocence and devotion to Eddie
- Growing awareness of her effect on men
- Struggle for independence
- Final break from Eddie's influence
