In some works of literature, a minor character is presented by the author to better serve his theme. This is true of the Common Man in A Man for All Seasons, by Robert Bolt.
In this play, political and religious leaders take center stage. It seems almost impossible for the average audience to find a genuine interest in Bolt’s characters, but through the introduction of the Common Man, and his presence throughout the play, Robert Bolt pulls his hearers into the play on a more personal level. The Common Man is of no political valor, nor is he a particularly religious man. He admits in the first act that he is incredibly base, unfit to even open the scene (Bolt 3). Bolt uses this simple character to stir the attention of his more common audience. Once their attention is captivated, the Common Man takes on multiple small roles, leading Bolt’s audience through the action of the play.
While Bolt utilizes his Common Man to move the play forward, he also fashions his character’s......
Join Now or Login to view the rest of this paper.
Approximate Word Count: 906
Approximate Pages: 4 (260 words per double-spaced page) |