Dynamic power relations between characters in A View from the Bridge: A pragmastylistic approach

Abstract

This article investigates power dynamics reflected in the conversations between characters in Arthur Miller’s written text, A View from the Bridge, from the perspective of pragmatic stylistics. Given that techniques from conversation analysis have proven feasible and effective in the analysis of dramatic dialogue, this article analyses and interprets the development of power relations in the Carbone family by means of turn-taking patterns. In general, this article argues that Eddie’s authority is consecutively undermined in front of Catherine, while his control over Beatrice is gradually reinforced. Moreover, Beatrice’s manipulation of Catherine is continuously challenged. Based on the above results, this article demonstrates that the changing power relations are a fundamental cause of family conflicts and the final tragedy. Therefore, this article shows that turn-taking analysis is a new way of explaining how we understand dynamic power relations between characters in this dramatic text.