Explain the difference between a major character and a minor character and illustrate your answer from Death of a Salesman.

Death of a Salesman examines how the life of Willy Loman spirals downwards towards suicide. Willy is clearly the main character as he has the most stage time, connects with the audience, and influences the other characters lives. When compared to Willy, Charley and Happy's roles are far smaller but not less important because they provide contrast. They advance the development of Willy's character and give the audience insight into Willy's feelings. Charley shows what …

…actions. They also contrast with the major character to emphasise certain characteristics and qualities. Major characters are the ones around whom the plot revolves. They propel the action forward, bond with the audience and have the most stage time. Alothough the main character may be the most important, without minor characters a play would have very little depth of field and could explore less of the potential issues in which the major characters are involved.