The Tragic Finale - Self-Destruction Complete
Miller's final scene brings Eddie's self-destruction to its inevitable conclusion. When Marco turns Eddie's own knife against him, it creates a perfect metaphor - Eddie has literally and figuratively destroyed himself through his uncontrollable jealousy.
The dramatic irony makes the ending even more powerful. Eddie warned others about the consequences of betrayal through the Vinny Bolzano story, yet he commits exactly the same crime. His inability to control his feelings for Catherine leads him to break every principle he claimed to value.
Miller's use of stage directions and dialogue builds incredible tension throughout the final confrontation. Eddie's "gathering himself" after Alfieri calls him out shows how difficult it becomes for him to hide his true feelings. The escalating violence feels both shocking and inevitable.
The play's conclusion effectively demonstrates how forbidden love and jealousy can create a domino effect of destruction. Eddie's internal conflict spreads to his family, then his community, ultimately costing him everything including his life.
Essay Tip: Focus on how Miller uses dramatic techniques like foreshadowing, symbolism, and stage directions to make Eddie's tragic fate feel both surprising and inevitable.