Charater notebook Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Charater notebook - Essay Example This one-act play comes in eight episodes with six characters, exemplifying the antagonism that existed between the business class community and working class. This discussion bases on the character of Joe and the ways it is portrayed by the playwright. The play starts at a Labor Union meeting, where the striking members are addressing their issues regarding the strike to the fellow audience. Harry Fatt, the corrupted union leader, favors the employer and tries to quell the strike by silencing the workers’ protest. However, the demand for strike is high and the workers are eagerly awaiting the arrival of their elected committee chairman, Lefty Costello. Meanwhile, Fatt tries to convince the seekers of the strike proposal by stating that the president is taking care of their interests, and so the strike seems to be unnecessary and unproductive in various regards. He even spies and intimidates the workers, accusing those who oppose his opinion as communists or cowards. While waiting for Lefty, the members are allowed to express their views on the necessity of the strike. Each of the character addresses their economic necessity - the primary reason for them to take the job as a cab driver. They explain their intentions behind t he strike proposal and how they are involved in the union. Firstly, Joe Mitchell takes his stand on the strike issue by defending the courage and conviction of Lefty. He also denies and opposes being called as a ‘Red’ by showing his war wounds as a symbol of patriotism. He speaks out about the poverty and exploitation of the working class by arguing that the strike is the only way out for them. He even persuades the workers to make up their minds in support of the strike, referring to his wife, Edna’s persuasion. The conversation between Joe and Edna reflects the tedious life of the cab drivers and their desperate households. Edna taunts Joe for his reluctance and persuades him to go on strike for higher wages.