Secondary Characters in A View from the Bridge
Introduction to Secondary Characters
The secondary characters in Arthur Miller's "A View from the Bridge" play crucial roles in developing the main narrative and highlighting the central themes. While they may not be at the forefront like Eddie Carbone, these characters provide essential perspectives and drive the plot forward.
Key Secondary Characters
Marco
Marco serves as a foil to Eddie and represents traditional Italian values and masculinity.
Key characteristics:
- Strong, hardworking, and family-oriented
- Physically powerful but typically quiet and reserved
- Driven by responsibility to his starving family in Italy
Rodolpho
Rodolpho's presence triggers the main conflict in the play.
Distinctive traits:
- Blonde-haired, good-looking, and charismatic
- Skilled at singing, cooking, and making dresses
- Represents a different kind of masculinity that threatens Eddie's traditional views
Louis and Mike
These neighborhood longshoremen serve multiple dramatic functions:
- Provide context for the community's values and expectations
- Act as a Greek chorus, commenting on events
- Represent the collective voice of Red Hook
Mr. Lipari and Mrs. Lipari
The Liparis demonstrate:
- The tight-knit nature of the immigrant community
- The importance of loyalty and trust
- The consequences of breaking community codes
Dramatic Functions
Creating Tension
Secondary characters build tension through:
- Providing different perspectives on Eddie's actions
- Witnessing key events and reacting to them
- Contributing to the atmosphere of impending tragedy
