The plot of stories often relies on the main characters to convey the desired message through their thoughts and actions. However, minor characters can also have a significant impact on the outcome of a book, even if readers don’t initially realize it. These seemingly unimportant players in a novel possess the power to change the thoughts and actions of the main characters, making them crucial to the plot’s development. In Herman Melville’s “Benito Cereno,” Atufal greatly influences Captain Delano, who is one of the main characters aboard the Spanish ship. Atufal’s assessments and opinions heavily affect Delano and ultimately shape both the plot and ending of the story.
Captain Delano grew suspicious of a possible irregularity on the ship, and his suspicions were confirmed when he encountered Atufal. Atufal’s actions confused Delano and led him to question what was truly going on aboard the San Dominick. Upon boarding the ship, Delano observed several incidents that seemed out of place. For instance, he witnessed a young Negro boy hitting a young white boy with a knife, without receiving any reaction from others on the ship. Delano found it strange that the Spaniards, whom he assumed were in control, did not seem bothered by this disrespect towards a white boy by a Negro. Atufal was then brought onto the ship’s deck in front of Benito Cereno to ask for his pardon. However, Atufal refused and was promptly returned to captivity. Delano perceived this situation as somewhat unjust and questioned Atufal’s offense, suggesting that if it wasn’t serious, his penalty should be remitted. Delano sympathized with the Negro and questioned Don Cereno about his cruel treatment of the slave. Based on Atufal’s actions, Delano concluded that Cereno was in control of the events on the boat and that his previous concerns regarding the role of the Negroes on the San Dominick could now be laid to rest.Delano merely entertained the idea that the blacks were controlling the Spanish vessel due to his observation of Atufal’s situation. Atufal’s presence caused Delano to question his suspicions and influenced his attitude towards the Negroes on the ship. Delano formed the belief that the blacks were obedient due to Don Cereno’s supposed cruelty towards Atufal. Delano even thought that the Negroes were too stupid. If Atufal hadn’t implanted ideas of white supremacy, Delano may have taken action sooner to help return the ship to Benito Cereno. In Herman Melville’s story Benito Cereno, minor character Atufal significantly impacted Captain Delano’s opinions, thus playing a major role in the plot. Often, minor characters are overlooked in novels; however, they are crucial for story development. Unlike other minor characters, Atufal exemplifies white-over-black dominance. Without Atufal misleading Captain Delano, the mystery and suspense surrounding the events aboard the San Dominick would not have been heightened.The seemingly insignificant individuals in the novel, Benito Cereno, play a crucial role that often goes unnoticed. Without them, the story would not have unfolded. Delano’s views and understanding of events are greatly influenced by these minor characters, causing a shift in the novel’s plot.
Atufal and the Negro woman, both minor characters in the novel Benito Cereno by Herman Melville, played a significant role in shaping Captain Delano’s perception of the events occurring on the San Dominick. Their actions led Delano to question his suspicions and ultimately influenced the actions of this main character, ultimately affecting the overall plot.
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