IndexIntroductionAlfieri as chorus: a Greek tragic structureA modern vision of Greek tragedy: the dynamic presence of AlfieriAlfieri's ambivalence: catalyst or victim?Justice and the law: the many facets of Alfieri PerspectiveConclusionReferencesIntroduction In the late 1940s, Arthur Miller wrote the iconic play "A View from the Bridge", drawing inspiration from the Italian immigrant community at the Brooklyn Pier. This play, similar to a Greek tragedy , introduces Alfieri as the chorus, offering a unique perspective on Eddie's tragic descent, trapped by the corrupt Italian-American society new world, shaping our understanding of the characters and the complex dynamics at play in this gritty story. Say no to plagiarism Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Alfieri as Chorus: A Greek Tragic Structure Miller strategically positions Alfieri as the. chorus within the framework of Aristotle's classical tragic structure. In this scheme, the protagonist, Eddie in this case, grapples with a "tragic flaw" that precipitates their downfall. Alfieri's presence is fundamental because he acts as a conduit for the audience, providing insights into the characters' inner thoughts and the unfolding of the narrative. This is in line with Aristotle's assertion that the chorus should be an integral part of the play, enhancing the audience's understanding of the story. Alfieri's initial meeting with Eddie, characterized by his description of Eddie's "eyes like tunnels", alludes to the protagonist's tunnel vision obsession with Catherine and his own dignity. Through Alfieri, the audience gains a deeper understanding of Eddie's irrationality and inner turmoil. Alfieri serves as a bridge between the world of the opera and the audience, allowing us to empathize with the tragic character of Eddie. A Modern Vision of Greek Tragedy: Alfieri's Dynamic Presence Miller's desire for a modern interpretation of Greek tragedy becomes evident as Alfieri's role transcends that of a traditional actor. choir. Unlike the conventional chorus, Alfieri actively interacts with the other characters and becomes an integral part of the narrative. This metafictional approach, similar to John Fowles' "The French Lieutenant's Woman," allows Alfieri to communicate directly with the characters, gaining insight into their motivations and thoughts, which he subsequently shares with the audience. This fulfills the Aristotelian vision of the chorus as an actor within the work. Furthermore, Alfieri's dynamic presence allows him not only to comment on ongoing events, but also to influence them. In the first act, he attempts to dissuade Eddie from pursuing legal action against his wife's cousins, Marco and Rodolpho, who have arrived from Italy. Alfieri recognizes the potential consequences of the authorities' involvement, both for the immigrants who risk deportation, and for Eddie himself, who risks alienation from his community. However, Eddie remains steadfast, highlighting the character's tragic flaw: his stubbornness and inability to accept the changing dynamics within his family. Alfieri's direct involvement in trying to prevent the impending tragedy highlights his role as a mediator between the characters and the audience. Alfieri's ambivalence: catalyst or victim? Over the course of the show, Alfieri grapples with the character of Eddie, oscillating between portraying him as the instigator of his own tragic downfall and a victim of the norms.