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Death of a Salesman

by Arthur Miller

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Student Question

What is Willy's final solution to his problems in Death of a Salesman?

Quick answer:

Willy's final solution to his problems is to commit suicide, believing that the life insurance payout will solve his family's financial issues. He imagines this will allow him to finally support his family. In a conversation with his brother, he argues that the $20,000 insurance money is a tangible benefit that outweighs the emptiness of his continued struggle, highlighting his desperation and misguided belief in the value of his sacrifice.

Expert Answers

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Willy's final solution is to commit suicide. He thinks it will help, as Linda will get the life-insurance policy, and they won't have money problems anymore. He believes he will finally be able to support his family, if only in death. In an imaginary conversation with his brother, where his brother is admonishing him for comitting suicide, Willy says, "Why? Does it take more guts to stand here the rest of my life ringing up a zero? ... And twenty thousand—that is something one can feel with the hand, it is there."

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