Death of a Salesman

Definition

Death of a Salesman is a play written by Arthur Miller that premiered in 1949, telling the story of Willy Loman, a struggling salesman who grapples with the American Dream and his own failures. The play reflects the ideals of American Realism in the mid-20th century by portraying the everyday struggles of common people, as well as addressing themes of identity, success, and disillusionment. It serves as a critique of the American Dream, exploring how societal expectations can lead to personal tragedy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Willy Loman represents the common man, whose aspirations for success and acceptance are ultimately crushed by societal pressures.
2. The play utilizes a non-linear narrative structure, blending present events with Willy's memories and hallucinations to reveal his psychological state.
3. Miller's portrayal of family dynamics highlights the impact of economic pressures on relationships, especially between Willy and his sons.
4. Death of a Salesman won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1949 and has since become a cornerstone of American theatre.
5. The play raises questions about personal worth and success, challenging the notion that material wealth equates to a fulfilling life.

Review Questions

• How does Willy Loman’s character illustrate the struggles associated with the American Dream?
  • Willy Loman embodies the challenges faced by those pursuing the American Dream, as he clings to an idealized vision of success while experiencing repeated failures. His belief that charm and likability are sufficient for achieving success leads him to overlook the harsh realities of his circumstances. As his mental state deteriorates, Willy’s struggle becomes a powerful commentary on how societal pressures can distort personal aspirations, ultimately revealing the dark side of chasing an unattainable dream.
• In what ways does Death of a Salesman employ elements of social realism to address issues within American society?
  • Death of a Salesman employs social realism by depicting the everyday lives and struggles of its characters against the backdrop of post-war American society. Miller showcases how economic instability and unrealistic expectations impact ordinary families, emphasizing issues such as mental health, family dynamics, and class disparity. This grounded portrayal encourages audiences to reflect on their own lives and societal values, fostering a deeper understanding of the characters' plights and the broader implications of their experiences.
• Evaluate how Death of a Salesman serves as a critique of capitalist society and its influence on individual identity.
  • Death of a Salesman critiques capitalist society by illustrating how Willy Loman's identity is inextricably linked to his perceived success within this framework. The relentless pursuit of material wealth leads Willy to equate his self-worth with professional achievement, resulting in profound disillusionment when he fails to meet societal expectations. Miller's exploration of this theme highlights how capitalism not only shapes personal aspirations but also contributes to emotional turmoil, ultimately suggesting that true fulfillment lies beyond economic measures.

Related terms

American Dream: A national ethos that emphasizes the belief that anyone can achieve success and prosperity through hard work and determination.

Social Realism: A style of art and literature that aims to represent the everyday lives of ordinary people and social issues, often highlighting struggles and injustices.

Tragedy: A dramatic genre that depicts serious themes involving human suffering, often leading to an unhappy or disastrous conclusion.