Firestone; More than a Minor Character : Examining Character use in Thomas Middleton's The Witch

Abstract

The role of a minor character within a play can easily be considered one dimensional and even unimportant. However, minor characters are very important and have a large impact on both the plot and bigger roles. The Witch, by Thomas Middleton, is a Jacobean witchcraft play that was written around 1613. It follows characters who, throughout the play, seek the aid of witches. These witches are in three acts of the play and Firestone is the son of Hecate, the senior witch. Firestone's main role is the clown of the play. The purpose of this study was to show the importance and depth of the Firestone character.