Cillia Lapham:
* Symbol of Hope and Strength: Cillia, despite her blindness, is a beacon of hope and resilience. Her positive outlook and unwavering faith in Johnny's abilities inspire him to persevere through hardship. She challenges Johnny's self-pity and encourages him to embrace his potential.
* Moral Compass: Cillia represents moral integrity and kindness. She shows compassion towards Johnny, even when he is struggling with his identity and sense of purpose. She helps him see the bigger picture and understand the importance of fighting for what is right.
* Influencing Johnny's Growth: Through Cillia, Johnny learns to see beyond his own struggles and appreciate the strength of others. Her unwavering belief in him allows him to grow into a more compassionate and responsible individual.
Rab Silsbee:
* Contrast to Johnny's Impulsivity: Rab, as Johnny's mentor and fellow silversmith, provides a contrasting perspective. Rab's calm demeanor and meticulous craftsmanship highlight Johnny's initial impulsivity and tendency to rush into things.
* Responsibility and Discipline: Rab's strong work ethic and dedication to his craft instill a sense of responsibility and discipline in Johnny. He teaches Johnny the value of precision, patience, and commitment to one's work.
* Influencing Johnny's Skill: Rab is instrumental in shaping Johnny's skills as a silversmith. He imparts his knowledge and expertise, guiding Johnny to become a master craftsman.
Overall Impact:
Cillia and Rab, despite their different personalities, act as complementary forces in shaping Johnny's character. They represent the virtues of hope, strength, integrity, discipline, and skill, which Johnny gradually embraces as he matures. Their influence highlights the importance of community, mentorship, and personal growth in the face of adversity, contributing to the book's broader themes of resilience, responsibility, and the American Revolution.