Death of a Salesman critical analysis

 

 

Death of a Salesman offers a deep exploration of the American Dream and its disillusionment, as well as the psychological and emotional turmoil of its central character, Willy Loman.

 

American Dream and its Disillusionment

 The play revolves around the concept of the American Dream, which promises success and happiness through hard work and determination. Willy Loman, the protagonist, embodies this dream, but his relentless pursuit of it leads to disillusionment. This reflects a critical commentary on the myth of the American Dream, suggesting that it often leads to disappointment and tragedy.

 

Willy Loman is a tragic hero in the classical sense. His tragic flaw is his delusion, the belief that success is solely determined by individuality and being well-liked. This fatal flaw eventually leads to his downfall, making his story a tragedy.

 

Capitalism and Consumerism

The play critiques the dehumanizing effects of capitalism and consumerism. Willy's occupation as a traveling salesman and his obsession with material success symbolize the emptiness of a life solely driven by economic pursuits.

The American Workplace (economical state of America): The play also sheds light on the harsh realities of the American workplace, where age and loyalty often count for little in the face of profit-driven corporate interests. Willy's experience of being discarded by his employer emphasizes the ruthlessness of the business world.

 

Death of a Salesman, indeed is a thought-provoking play that offers a critical analysis of the American Dream, the human condition, and the impact of capitalism on individuals and families. Through its well-crafted characters, symbolism, and exploration of societal themes, it continues to be a significant work in American literature and theater.

 

 

Symbolism in Death of a Salesman

The American Dream: The central motif of the play, the American Dream, is symbolized by Willy Loman's belief in success and the idea that anyone can achieve it through hard work. However, the play critiques the illusion of this dream and its unattainability.

 

The Loman House: The Loman family's home serves as a symbol of their failed dreams and the tension within the family. It deteriorates over time, mirroring the family's disintegration.

 

Seeds: Willy's obsession with planting seeds in the backyard symbolizes his desire to leave something meaningful behind for his family. However, it also represents his failure to achieve this and the futility of his efforts.

 

The Woman: The woman in the hotel room symbolizes Willy's temptation and moral decay. She represents the destructive nature of his pursuit of success.

 

The Car: The car represents Willy's sense of independence and freedom. It also becomes a symbol of his downfall when he crashes it, foreshadowing his own demise.

 

The Diamonds: Ben's diamond mining success symbolizes the unattainable wealth that Willy longs for. It serves as a constant reminder of his failure to achieve the same level of success.

 

These symbols and imageries collectively contribute to the play's exploration of the American Dream, the disintegration of the Loman family, and the tragic downfall of its protagonist, Willy Loman.

 

Reflection of great depression in death of a salesman

Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller reflects elements of the Great Depression through its portrayal of the main character, Willy Loman. Willy's struggles as a salesman in a changing economic landscape mirror the challenges faced by many during the Great Depression.

 

Economic Hardship: Willy's constant financial struggles and inability to achieve the American Dream reflect the economic hardships experienced by many during the Great Depression. The stock market crash of 1929 and the subsequent economic downturn left countless individuals like Willy without job security or financial stability.

 

Job Insecurity: Willy's fear of losing his job and the pressure to maintain his position as a salesman parallel the widespread job insecurity prevalent during the Great Depression. Many people lived in fear of losing their livelihoods, just as Willy does.

 

Family Struggles: Willy's strained relationship with his family and his desire to provide for them symbolize the family dynamics and struggles faced by many during the Great Depression. Families were often fractured as a result of economic stress and the pursuit of financial stability.