How Does Miller Create Tension In A View From The Bridge

Analyse at least one important idea from the play

The idea that we are unable to control our inner passions and desires is clearly expressed in “A view from the bridge” written by Arthur Miller. This idea links to the character of Eddie and his perverted desires for Catherine and can be seen throughout the play as it eventually becomes worse and uncontrollable for Eddie.

Near the outset of the second act, Miller , through the use of diction choice, describes Eddie to be “unsteady” and “drunk” as a result of whisky which “slipped from a net”. The word “drunk” is used in the stage direction to imply the idea that Eddie’s current mindset in the scene is rather unstable and slow to act which gives the audience the interpretation that Eddie doesn't think before he says something. As a result of this unresponsiveness, Eddie “reaches out” and “kisses” Catherine “on the mouth.” This action conveys the idea that Eddie’s love for Catherine and is therefore in a state where he is unable

This tension shows Eddie’s state of discomfort when Catherine she is around other men. The fact that Rodolpho can “sing” , “cook” , and “make dresses” takes Catherine’s heart and the interests of Eddie. Due to Rodolpho’s vast set of skills and talents, Eddie suggests that the “water-front is no place for him” and instead he should be “somewhere else”. However upon hearing this, Rodolpho “turns off the phonograph” as he understands that Eddie is indirectly implying the fact that Rodolpho should leave the house and therefore Catherine to put his skills to good use. The fact that Eddie “unconsciously” twists “the newspaper into a tight roll” upon noticing Rodolpho’s actions presents the idea that Eddie has allowed his inner desires to take over his speech and his actions as he performs the action