Death of a Salesman

Definition

Death of a Salesman is a play written by Arthur Miller that premiered in 1949, focusing on the life of Willy Loman, an aging salesman struggling to achieve success in a rapidly changing society. The play explores themes of the American Dream, identity, and the harsh realities of life, showcasing how personal and societal pressures can lead to disillusionment. This work is pivotal in American realism in theater, as it presents authentic characters and situations that reflect the complexities of everyday life, while also serving as a critique of societal values through its political undertones.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The character Willy Loman symbolizes the struggles of many individuals pursuing the American Dream, revealing the toll that relentless ambition can take on a person's mental health and family life.
2. The play employs a non-linear narrative structure, blending reality with Willy's memories and fantasies, which reflects his deteriorating mental state.
3. Arthur Miller wrote Death of a Salesman to address the disillusionment felt by many Americans post-World War II as they grappled with changing social and economic landscapes.
4. The play critiques the capitalist system by portraying how it exploits individuals like Willy, who are unable to adapt to its demands and ultimately face tragic consequences.
5. Death of a Salesman has been regarded as a classic piece of American theater, earning numerous awards including the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the Tony Award for Best Play.

Review Questions

• How does Death of a Salesman exemplify elements of American realism in theater?
  • Death of a Salesman exemplifies American realism by presenting relatable characters and situations that reflect real-life struggles. Willy Loman's experiences highlight the everyday challenges people face in pursuit of the American Dream. The play portrays authentic dialogue and settings, emphasizing the complexities of family dynamics and personal aspirations against the backdrop of societal expectations.
• In what ways does Death of a Salesman serve as a political commentary on American society?
  • Death of a Salesman serves as political commentary by critiquing the capitalist values that drive individuals like Willy Loman to pursue unattainable dreams. The play exposes the harsh realities faced by those who are unable to succeed within this system, highlighting issues such as mental health struggles, economic disparity, and the fleeting nature of success. Through Willy's tragic story, Miller encourages audiences to question societal norms and the definition of success.
• Evaluate how Arthur Miller uses Willy Loman's character to explore broader themes of identity and disillusionment in Death of a Salesman.
  • Arthur Miller uses Willy Loman's character to delve into themes of identity and disillusionment by portraying his internal conflict between self-perception and societal expectations. Willy's obsession with being well-liked leads him to lose sight of his true self and value beyond material success. This creates a sense of disillusionment not only for Willy but also for his family, reflecting how individuals can become trapped by their own ambitions in a society that equates worth with wealth. Through Willy's journey, Miller illustrates the tragic consequences of pursuing an idealized identity shaped by external pressures.

Related terms

American Dream:

The cultural ideal that suggests success is achievable through hard work and determination, often associated with material wealth and social mobility.

Tragedy: A dramatic genre characterized by serious themes and often featuring a protagonist who experiences downfall due to a flaw or circumstance.

Expressionism:

An artistic movement that seeks to convey emotional experience rather than physical reality, often through distorted imagery and exaggerated forms.