Live Like Pigs: characters

Section: Main Characters

John Arden’s “Live Like Pigs” features a range of diverse characters, each with unique traits and perspectives that add depth to the overarching narrative.
Of these are the Carters, a family living in a dilapidated caravan, including the headstrong but mercurial Mary Carter, her husband George, an unambitious and defeated figure, their rebellious son Mickey, and the opportunistic, resistant twin daughters, Liz and Bet.
Then there is Art Galloper, a young, well-intentioned man who, out of love for Mary, becomes entangled with the Carter family, though he tries to find a middle ground with the council.
Travellers are other vital characters, sharing the same caravan space with the Carter family - they add an interesting dynamic, serving as both allies and catalysts in the Carter’s resistance.

Section: Secondary Characters

Fred Midgley and his wife, residents of one of the newly built council houses, initially welcome the Carters but end up becoming victims of their disruptive behaviour.
Council Members, like Mr. Skinner, represent the authority seeking to evict the Carter family and other caravan dwellers in the name of progress.
Police Officers play a critical role towards the play’s climax, being the operational arm enforcing the council’s regulations.

Section: Character Development

As the play progresses, characters undergo significant changes - for instance, Mary becomes hardened, choosing to fight against circumstances, while George seems to soften, ultimately breaking down and abandoning his family.
Art evolves from a love-struck young man to a determined activist, realizing the socio-political underpinnings of the Carters’ struggle.
The Carter children become increasingly defiant as they see their living conditions worsen and their home threatened.

Section: Character Relationships

Explore character relationships, since these significantly impact the plot - for instance, the turbulent relationship between Mary and George or Art’s complex involvement with the Carter family.
Note the dynamics between the Caravan dwellers and the council, representing the clash of class and authority.
Pay attention to how relationships evolve as the play unfolds, such as Fred and his wife’s shifting stance towards the Carters.