Final answer:
Robert Warshow argues that the gangster represents the man of the city, thriving in the urban environment. Rico Bandello and Tony Camonte are examples of gangster characters who embody this idea.
Step-by-step explanation:
In his essay "The Gangster as Tragic Hero," Robert Warshow argues that "the gangster is the man of the city." He means that the gangster represents a certain type of person who thrives in the urban environment, embodying the power, excitement, and lawlessness of the city. This idea can be seen in the characters Rico Bandello (Little Caesar) and Tony Camonte (Scarface 1932).
Rico Bandello, the protagonist of the film "Little Caesar," rises from a small-time criminal to become a powerful gangster in the city. He is driven by his ambition, desire for power, and need for respect. His actions and decisions reflect the values and struggles of the urban environment he inhabits, as he navigates the world of organized crime to achieve his goals.
Tony Camonte, the central character in "Scarface 1932," is another example of a gangster who embodies the idea of 'the man of the city.' He is ruthless, ambitious, and willing to do whatever it takes to rise to the top of the criminal underworld. Like Rico Bandello, Tony Camonte's story reflects the urban environment and its influence on his actions and motivations.