Discuss the Part Played by Apparently Minor Characters in the Novel "Beloved"

Minor characters generally are not usually given special importance, however, play a crucial role in Toni Morrison's novel Beloved. Contrasts between the main characters and the minor characters provide new perspectives. In memories of Paul D. and Sethe, the minor characters often play major roles, and have direct effects on the plot. The characters presence is used to portray how it would feel to live as a slave. Furthermore, Morrison dedicates the book to the characters effected by slavery, "Sixty Million," capitalizing as if a character.
Sethe was originally a slave at Sweet Home, run by Mr. Garner. Mr. Garner was a kind man, placing a great deal of trust on his slaves. But after his death, a man called Schoolteacher took over. …