The sneakers “printed [with] University of Virginia” are a symbol that has emerged in Death of a Salesman, which represents Biff’s hope for a bright future (20). Despite the fact that Biff is failing his current math course, Willy is not concerned after seeing the sneakers, since in his eyes they are a guarantee for a successful future for Biff. However, Bernard remains doubtful after seeing the sneakers, since the reality is “because he [Biff] printed University of Virginia on his sneakers doesn’t mean they’ve got to graduate him” (20). The way that the sneakers are perceived by these two characters explores the theme of appearance versus reality. While Willy sees them as a warranty to a great future, in reality, the sneakers are nothing
