Themes: The American Dream
In the play, Miller presents two versions of the American dream, symbolized by Willy and his older brother, Ben. Ben represents the traditional American dream, which was inextricably linked to America’s Western expansion and the concept of manifest destiny. It encouraged men to be self-sufficient and generate their wealth from the land, often at the expense of marginalized Indigenous groups. This moral ambiguity is borne out by Ben’s first attempt at generating wealth, which, although vaguely described, involved capitalizing on diamond mines in Africa. Ben then buys land in Alaska and offers Willy a job managing it. Willy is tempted by Ben’s proposition and a chance to claim the masculine, traditional American dream he has been longing for.
However, Willy is striving toward a different American dream that took hold in the 1930s. This is a material dream built on consumerism, where success is ultimately zero sum. In this context, success is defined by getting “ahead of the next fella” by having a better salary, bigger house, or nicer car. Although Willy and Biff both value the physicality and consequent satisfaction of a job well done, Willy yearns for the high visibility of the corporate American dream. The isolation of Ben’s American dream, while fulfilling Willy’s vocational desires, provides no oxygen for Willy’s vanity and pride. For Willy Loman, being successful by itself is not enough; in order to satiate his ego, he must be seen to be successful.
Expert Q&A
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 mattress!"?
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 zone. Willy sees his brother's fortune made in African diamond mines as proof of this. However, he fails to recognize the difference between their situations and believes his own hard work should yield a similar fortune, leading to his mental fragility and exhaustion.
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.
What is Biff's perception of the American Dream and how does he pursue it?
Biff's perception of the American Dream is shaped by his reaction against his father Willy's unsuccessful pursuit of it. Instead of adhering to Willy's ideals of success in sales and business, Biff desires a more tangible and fulfilling life, preferring outdoor work where he feels a man truly belongs. His pursuit is less about achieving a personal dream and more about escaping the illusions and failures he associates with Willy's version of the American Dream.
How does Arthur Miller use tone and diction to convey the "American Dream" in Death of a Salesman?
Arthur Miller uses tone and diction in "Death of a Salesman" to critique the "American Dream." The tragic tone underscores Willy Loman's inevitable downfall, emphasizing his misperception of success. Diction reflects Willy's obsession with being "well-liked" and external appearances, neglecting the substance of his work. This focus highlights the futility of achieving greatness solely through hard work, as promised by the American Dream, leading to Willy's despair and eventual demise.
What short story about the American dream can compare to Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman?
Was Linda supportive or detrimental to Willy's dream in Death of a Salesman?
Linda's role in Willy's life in "Death of a Salesman" can be seen as both supportive and detrimental. She provides unwavering emotional support, maintaining his self-esteem and shielding him from harsh realities, which could be seen as enabling his delusions. While she acts as a buffer between Willy and the world, her failure to confront him about his destructive behavior suggests she inadvertently contributes to his downfall. However, she remains a sympathetic figure with realistic insights into Willy's struggles.
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 teaches his sons to value material success and popularity over integrity. Biff later rejects this, finding fulfillment in personal satisfaction rather than business success. Linda values family respect, while Happy associates success with outcompeting others, even sexually.
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