As a long-term Bridge user, I am a complete beginner with Lightroom. Can I replace Bridge with Lightroom?

Bridge will always be useful in certain scenarios outside of managing your photos. That said many photographers using Lightroom to manage their assets find it to be quicker than Bridge in almost every respect. The added modules within Lightroom such as Print, Web, Book also make it a solid solution.

A few things to note since you mentioned you are a complete beginner with Lightroom. Take the time to learn how to set up and manage your Lightroom catalog by watching Julienne Kost's training videos:

LIGHTROOM CC – OVERVIEW
Lightroom CC or Bridge – Which is the Right Application to Manage your Workflow?
Lightroom CC – Overview of the Lightroom Interface

This will take you to JK's full library. I can't imagine a better place to start. I hope this is helpful.

Lightroom Training Videos « Julieanne Kost's Blog