Blood Brothers: characters

Blood Brothers: Characters

Mickey Johnstone

One of the twin brothers who were separated at birth. Grows up in a poverty-stricken, working-class family.
Initially, he is full of life and is carefree but his demeanour changes after being imprisoned.
As an adult, he struggles with unemployment and depression.

Edward Lyons

Mickey’s twin brother, who is taken in by a wealthy, middle-class family after birth.
Unlike Mickey, he is educated, polite, and uses formal language.
He is naïve and innocent, especially towards societal class divisions and struggles.

Mrs. Johnstone

Biological mother of the twins, who works as a cleaner for Mrs. Lyons.
Her motherly love and strong moral compass is shown when she struggles with her decision to give up one of her sons.
She is superstitious and her belief in the curse profoundly affects the plot.

Mrs. Lyons

The adoptive mother of Edward and employer of Mrs. Johnstone.
Initially, she appears kind and caring but later becomes paranoid and manipulative, fearing losing Edward.
She is consumed by the superstition that the twins must never meet.

Sammy Johnstone

Mickey’s older brother, portrayed as violent and reckless.
His threatening and aggressive behaviour sets a negative precedent for Mickey.

Linda

A childhood friend and later the wife of Mickey, who also develops feelings for Edward.
She is a strong and supportive character, caught in the midst of the brothers’ tragic fate.

The Narrator

Unlike traditional narrators, he involves himself as a character in the play.
He doesn’t interact directly with the characters but rather, comments on their actions, providing key insights and dramatic irony.

Remember that each character plays a vital role in understanding the themes and narrative of the play. Deeper understanding of the nuances of each character helps in grasping the overall essence of ‘Blood Brothers’.