The first character introduced in the play is Alfieri; he is a ‘big time lawyer’, who speaks a recognizable standard American English, unlike everybody else featured in the play. Alfieri is a very mysterious character; he is constantly appearing and disappearing into the shadows, or the ‘black of the night,’ which leaves an impact on the audience as they are curious to whom this person is and what his role is in the play. He basically recites the prologue and epilogue to the play and comments on the main action.
The audience are constantly kept on their feet guessing as to what will happen to the relationship between Eddie Carbone and Catherine. Instantly they realize that throughout the play there will be a lot of conflict between these two characters. However they are not sure what all the arguments will result in. The most anticipating moment of the play is the final scene; Miller has prepared the audience for this ending throughout the play. Miller creates plenty of tension during this scene, because there are a number of endings that can be used, the audience is eager to find out which one will take place.
Miller had prepared a number of endings but thought that the chosen ending would have the most effect. Another possible option to end the play was Eddie committing suicide, although this is very dramatic, it did not suit Eddie’s character. Miller describes Eddie as a strong-minded man, who is always willing to fight for what he wants. Therefore the chosen ending was much more effective as Eddie didn’t give up without a fight. At the end of the play Eddie realized the hurt he had caused, the audience will have been pleased with the result. Eddie being killed is a major shock towards the audience. Although they knew the ending would be dramatic, Eddie’s death was somewhat unpredictable. Alfieri concludes the play, making the ending seem more complete.
The audience are prepared for the ending because they are eager to see what will happen in the ending of the play. By creating plenty of conflict and emotion between lots of the characters Miller has made sure the audience will be prepared for the finale.
The audience automatically begin to dislike Eddie and give sympathy towards Beatrice and sometimes Catherine. Rodolpho is another character the audience begin to like because he has done no harm towards anyone, and even tries to resolve differences with Eddie. Although Marco kills Eddie there is no strong disliking towards him, he did the right thing, which results in the audience being surprised by Marco’s actions but also pleased. The audience learns that Alfieri is a loyal friend, but does realize that Eddie is out of line; therefore Alfieri is respected by the audience.
By creating plenty of conflict, action and unpredictable scenes Miller builds up a lot of tension throughout the play. He describes the characters thoroughly and uses masses of emotion to allow the audience to get to know the characters and decide who should be liked and disliked. The variation of emotions from different characters reflects their personality, this way the audience discover who is the most twisted character. That is why Eddie Carbone, in the audiences opinion deserved to die.
