Death of a salesman
by Mc Arthur Miller
Introduction:
"Death of a Salesman" is a play written by Arthur Miller in 1948, set in
the 1940s, a time of great change in American society. The play tells the
story of Willy Loman, a traveling salesman who has devoted his life to
the pursuit of the American Dream, but has never achieved success.
Willy's mental state deteriorates as he experiences a series of
flashbacks and hallucinations, becoming increasingly desperate to
provide for his family and maintain his dignity as a salesman. The play
explores themes of the American Dream, the nature of success, and
the human condition. Ultimately, it is a powerful critique of the
illusions of success and happiness that the American Dream creates.
Plot Summary:
"Death of a Salesman" is a play that follows the life of Willy Loman, a salesman
struggling with his job and mental health. He has an estranged relationship with
his son Biff, whom he believes has the potential to be successful but hasn't
fulfilled it. The play showcases Willy's flashbacks, including his affair with a
woman and memories of his successful brother Ben, emphasizing his
disillusionment with his life. The climax happens when Willy is fired from his job
and Biff confronts him about his lies, leading Willy to realize that his life has
been a failure. The play ends with Willy taking his own life. It explores themes of
the American Dream, success, family relationships, and mental health,
highlighting the struggles of people in a society that values material wealth and
status.
Characters introduction:
• The main characters are Willy Loman, his wife Linda, and their sons Biff and
Happy.
• Willy is a traveling salesman struggling with his job and mental health.
• Linda is a supportive and loving wife.
• Biff is a former high school football star who is resentful of his father's
unrealistic expectations and struggling to find his place in the world.
• Happy is more successful than Biff but lacks moral values. The play explores
the themes of the American Dream, family relationships, and the struggle for
identity and meaning in a changing world.
Theme Analysis: #1
• The Nature of Success: The play explores different definitions of
success and how it affects the characters. Willy believes that success
is measured by popularity and material wealth, while Biff and Happy
struggle to find their own paths in life. The play suggests that success
is a complex and multifaceted concept that cannot be reduced to a
single definition.
Theme Analysis: #2
• The Role of Family and Relationships: Family relationships are a
central theme in the play. Willy's strained relationship with his sons,
particularly Biff, reflects the tension between generations and the
struggle for parental acceptance. The play also examines the impact
of familial dynamics on personal identity and self-worth.
Theme Analysis: #3
• The Effects of the Past on the Present: The play explores the ways in
which the past can affect the present. Willy is haunted by memories
of his brother Ben and his affair with "The Woman," which contribute
to his mental instability. Biff and Happy are also affected by their past
experiences, particularly their relationships with their father. The play
suggests that the past is never truly gone and can have a lasting
impact on our lives.
Why I recomended this book?
• "Death of a Salesman" is a powerful play that raises important
questions about the meaning of success, the pressure to conform to
societal norms, and the consequences of living a life without purpose
or meaning. It invites us to reflect on our own lives and the values
that we hold dear.
• Some final thoughts: What do you think is the significance of the
play's title? How do you think the play's message could be applied to
our own lives and society?
Thanks for listening!