Death of a Salesman Questions and Answers
Death of a Salesman
What does Willy's statement "You can't eat the orange, and throw the peel away—a man is not a piece of fruit" mean in...
When Willy says "You can't eat the orange, and throw the peel away—a man is not a piece of fruit" to Howard in Death of a Salesman, he means that Howard has treated Willy like an orange, consuming...
Death of a Salesman
The role and significance of "The Woman" in "Death of a Salesman."
The role of "The Woman" in "Death of a Salesman" is to represent Willy Loman's infidelity and the resulting guilt that haunts him. Her significance lies in highlighting Willy's moral failings and the...
Death of a Salesman
Relationships and Tensions Among the Loman Family in Death of a Salesman
The Loman family in Death of a Salesman is fraught with tension and conflict. Willy's unrealistic dreams and constant pressure create friction with his sons, Biff and Happy, leading to feelings of...
Death of a Salesman
What is the meaning of this quote in Death of a Salesman: "The world is an oyster, but you don't crack it open on a...
The quote "The world is an oyster, but you don't crack it open on a mattress!" from Death of a Salesman reflects Willy Loman's belief that success requires hard work and striving beyond one's comfort...
Death of a Salesman
In Death of a Salesman, what does Willy mean by "the woods are burning" and "I got nothin' to give him, Charley, I'm...
In "Death of a Salesman", when Willy says "the woods are burning", he is expressing his desperation and feeling of impending doom as his world crumbles around him. He feels trapped by his failures...
Death of a Salesman
The importance of "being liked" in Death of a Salesman
In Death of a Salesman, the importance of "being liked" is a central theme that drives Willy Loman's actions and beliefs. Willy equates personal success with being well-liked, believing it ensures...
Death of a Salesman
What quotes represent the relationship between Willy and Biff?
An important quote that represents Willy and Biff's relationship is the following: BIFF: You fake! You phony little fake! You fake! (Overcome, he turns quickly and weeping fully goes out with his...
Death of a Salesman
What's ironic about Linda wondering why no one attended the funeral?
The irony in Linda wondering why no one attended Willy's funeral in Death of a Salesman lies in her denial of Willy's true nature. Despite recognizing the reality of Willy's suicide, she refuses to...
Death of a Salesman
The dynamics and relationships between Willy, Charley, Biff, and Bernard in Death of a Salesman
Willy Loman and Charley have a complex relationship marked by rivalry and mutual respect, with Charley often helping Willy financially. Biff and Bernard's relationship evolves from childhood...
Death of a Salesman
The significance and impact of Dave Singleman on Willy Loman in Death of a Salesman
Dave Singleman significantly impacts Willy Loman by embodying Willy's ideal of a successful salesman. Singleman's ability to make sales effortlessly, even in his old age, and his well-attended...
Death of a Salesman
The nature and significance of Willy and Linda's relationship in Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman
In Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman, Willy and Linda's relationship is characterized by deep emotional dependence and mutual support. Linda is nurturing and supportive, often acting as Willy's...
Death of a Salesman
In Death of a Salesman, what American myth is Happy referencing when he says, "I'm losing weight, you notice, Pop?"
In Death of a Salesman, when Happy tells his father that he is losing weight, he is bringing up the American myth that a person's outward appearance indicates their level of success and social status.
Death of a Salesman
In Death of a Salesman, what does Linda mean by "Life is a casting off," and what rhetorical device is this?
In Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman, Linda's phrase "Life is a casting off" metaphorically describes life as a series of events that are concluded and left behind, similar to finishing a row in...
Death of a Salesman
Exploring Social Realism and Tragedy in "Death of a Salesman"
Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman explores social realism by portraying the struggles of the average American family against societal expectations and economic pressures. The tragedy unfolds...
Death of a Salesman
In Death of a Salesman, what does Willy Loman sell?
In Death of a Salesman, the specific products Willy Loman sells are never revealed. This deliberate omission by Arthur Miller suggests that Willy's work is unimportant and his life is consumed by...
Death of a Salesman
What is the meaning behind Charley's statement to Willy about J. P. Morgan in Death of a Salesman?
Charley's statement to Willy about J. P. Morgan in Death of a Salesman signifies the difference between how they perceive reality and value. Charley believes that external wealth and status, like...
Death of a Salesman
What is the significance of the following quote?
The quote from Biff Loman in Death of a Salesman signifies his acceptance of his own limitations and his plea for his father, Willy, to recognize and accept him as he is. Biff's admission highlights...
Death of a Salesman
What is the importance of flashbacks in Death of a Salesman?
In "Death of a Salesman," flashbacks are crucial as they emphasize Willy Loman's nostalgic and distorted perception of the past, contrasting with his harsh present reality. They reveal Willy's flawed...
Death of a Salesman
What's problematic about Ben's statement, "Never fight fair with a stranger. You'll never get out of the jungle that...
Ben's statement, "Never fight fair with a stranger," is problematic because it contradicts Willy's belief that success comes from being likable. This advice also highlights the ruthless nature of the...
Death of a Salesman
What is the meaning and significance of this quote from Death of a Salesman: "When I was seventeen I walked into the...
The quote from Death of a Salesman is significant because it reflects Willy's delusion of achieving quick wealth. Ben's imaginary statement fuels Willy's belief that he can still become rich despite...
Death of a Salesman
Arthur Miller's structural and expressionistic techniques in "Death of a Salesman."
Arthur Miller employs both structural and expressionistic techniques in "Death of a Salesman" by using a non-linear narrative and blending reality with Willy Loman's memories and hallucinations....
Death of a Salesman
Why does Linda say "we're free" in Death of a Salesman?
At the end of Death of a Salesman, Linda says "we're free" because she has just made the final payment on the Loman house.
Death of a Salesman
Why does Linda return the rubber hose in "Death of a Salesman"?
Linda returns the rubber hose because she does not want to confront Willy and insult his pride, as acknowledging his suicidal intentions would embarrass him. She hopes that by not confronting him,...
Death of a Salesman
Discuss the gender relationships in Death of a Salesman. Are there positive models?
Male–female relationships in Death of a Salesman are largely unequal and dishonest, particularly the marriage between Willy and Linda Loman.
Death of a Salesman
How do hallucination scenes in Death of a Salesman reveal Willy's motivations?
In Death of a Salesman, Willy's hallucinations reveal his motivations by illustrating his struggle between reality and illusion. These scenes, especially those featuring his brother Ben, symbolize...
Death of a Salesman
In Death of a Salesman, why does Biff steal Bill Oliver's pen?
Biff steals Bill Oliver's pen as a reaction to his frustrations and failures. Initially, it may have been an attempt to prove he was in Oliver's office, but ultimately it symbolizes his realization...
Death of a Salesman
Symbols in Death of a Salesman
In Death of a Salesman, key symbols include seeds, which represent Willy's hope for legacy and growth, and the rubber hose, symbolizing his suicidal tendencies. The stockings signify Willy's...
Death of a Salesman
Examples of significant monologues and dialogues in Death of a Salesman
Significant monologues and dialogues in Death of a Salesman include Willy Loman's reflections on his failures and dreams, Biff's confrontation with Willy about their family's illusions, and Linda's...
Death of a Salesman
What does the quotation "he's only a little boat looking for a harbor" mean in Death of a Salesman?
The quotation "he's only a little boat looking for a harbor" in Death of a Salesman refers to Willy Loman's desperate search for stability and acceptance. Linda uses this metaphor to illustrate...
Death of a Salesman
Gender roles in Death of a Salesman
In Death of a Salesman, gender roles are portrayed through traditional expectations: men are seen as breadwinners, and women as caretakers. Willy Loman embodies the pressure to succeed...
Death of a Salesman
Irony In Death Of A Salesman
Examples of irony in Death of a Salesman include Willy Loman's failure despite constantly advising his sons on how to succeed, even though he doesn't know the secret to success himself. Another...
Death of a Salesman
In Death of a Salesman, why does Biff run out of the chop house?
Biff meets his father and brother in the restaurant after his humiliating encounter with Bill Oliver. Their dinner dissolves into disaster because of Willy's growing mental and emotional...
Death of a Salesman
The significance of Biff's thefts in "Death of a Salesman"
Biff's thefts in "Death of a Salesman" signify his rebellion against his father's materialistic values and his struggle with identity and self-worth. These acts of theft highlight his internal...
Death of a Salesman
Identify three differences between the print and film versions of Death of a Salesman.
Three differences between the print and film versions of Death of a Salesman are: the film includes visual hallucinations and flashbacks, such as Uncle Ben acting out scenes; the film uses fully...
Death of a Salesman
In Death of a Salesman, what does Willy's inability to get past Yonkers symbolize?
This is an excellent question. Act One of Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman begins with Willy Loman returning from one of this many business trips as a salesman. The difference with this...
Death of a Salesman
The role of theft in Death of a Salesman
Theft in Death of a Salesman symbolizes the characters' moral decay and desperation. Willy Loman steals to provide for his family, while Biff's thefts reflect his rebellion and search for identity....
Death of a Salesman
Howard's treatment of Willy in Death of a Salesman
Howard treats Willy dismissively and unsympathetically in Death of a Salesman. Despite Willy's long tenure and dedicated service, Howard shows little respect or understanding for Willy's struggles,...
Death of a Salesman
What is the symbolic meaning of the jungle in Death of a Salesman?
In Death of a Salesman, the jungle symbolizes the ruthless and competitive world of business. It represents a place where some, like Ben, succeed and others, like Willy, fail. The jungle's darkness...
Death of a Salesman
In Death of a Salesman, what is the conflict between Willy and Biff?
The conflict between Willy and Biff in Death of a Salesman stems from Willy's disappointment in Biff's lack of steady employment and success. Willy's high expectations and Biff's failure to meet them...
Death of a Salesman
What is the irony in Willy Loman's comment "I'm tired to the death"?
The irony in Willy Loman's comment "I'm tired to the death" is that he is actually close to dying. While intended as an exaggeration of his fatigue, it foreshadows his impending suicide. Willy has...
Death of a Salesman
Signs of Willy's deteriorating mental state and collapsing world in "Death of a Salesman."
Signs of Willy's deteriorating mental state and collapsing world in "Death of a Salesman" include his increasing confusion between past and present, frequent hallucinations, and erratic behavior. He...
Death of a Salesman
What connection is there between Biff's return and Willy's inability to get past Yonkers?
Willy is upset because Biff is coming home, yet again, unable to hold down a job or make it on his own. While Biff isn't entirely incompetent, the problem is that his attitude and puffed up...
Death of a Salesman
What did Willy's family gain from his death?
Willy's family gains different things from his death in Death of a Salesman. If the insurance claim is upheld, they may benefit financially. Linda gains financial freedom and relief from mental...
Death of a Salesman
What are some flashback quotes in Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman?
In Death of a Salesman, key flashback quotes include Willy's declaration to his sons about someday owning his own business and not needing to travel, and his encounter with the mayor of Providence....
Death of a Salesman
Compare and contrast the Loman brothers in Death of a Salesman.
Biff and Happy Loman are both "lost" and unsuccessful, yet they differ significantly. Biff is older, seemingly more talented and intelligent, but also more self-aware and critical of their father's...
Death of a Salesman
What does Charley say at Willy's grave in Death of a Salesman?
At Willy's grave in Death of a Salesman, Charley tries to explain Willy's view of life as a salesman in order to prevent the others present from judging him too harshly.
Death of a Salesman
Does Linda Loman know about her husband's affair in Death of a Salesman?
It is uncertain if Linda Loman knows about her husband's affair in Death of a Salesman. Even if she suspects it, her loyalty and traditional role as a housewife mean she continues to support and...
Death of a Salesman
Definitions and Perceptions of Success in "Death of a Salesman"
In Death of a Salesman, success is defined differently by various characters. Willy Loman equates success with wealth and popularity, idolizing figures like Dave Singleman and his brother Ben. He...
Death of a Salesman
What lies have been told in the Loman family's house in Death of a Salesman?
The Loman family in Death of a Salesman is steeped in lies. Willy lies about his success and popularity as a salesman, while his sons, Biff and Happy, lie about their personal achievements and...
Death of a Salesman
In Death of a Salesman, what are the positive and negative impacts of Willy's death?
Overall, Willy's death is shown to be negative for the family. Linda seems to have a lot of trouble dealing with his death; Happy is determined to fulfil the dreams of his father, whereas Biff is...