Death Of A Salesman Critical Analysis

Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman presents to the reader a tragic work that also displays the harsh realities of life where betrayal and lack of meeting expectations must be faced. Through the story of Willy Loman, Miller develops an intricate plot which reinforces the idea that too much pride and ignorance can consume oneself to the extent that they detriment themselves and others. Willy’s act of allowing himself to be blinded by “The American Dream” and his expectations to leave behind a substantial future for his children Biff and Happy and wife Linda without compromise ultimately present complications that lead to his imminent death.
A key element that has allowed readers to thoroughly understand the statements made by Willy throughout the play is the presence of ‘flashbacks’ that display key events in Willy’s life, which also provides rationale for various decisions he makes throughout the play. Throughout the play, it is made evident that Willy has ‘fallen out of his prime’—from gradually losing income over several years to ultimately losing his job and ability to provide a lavish life for his family. While it is expected that an individual stuck within such a situation would seek help from others or find an easier line of work, Willy insists on maintaining his current position as a traveling …show more content…
Willy Loman accurately portrays the struggle of attaining success in what is, in reality, a harsh society and also shows how one’s pride and ignorance has the potential to consume oneself. The unfortunate decisions of Willy makes such a profound effect that it shapes the development of his children who also let him down to the extent that Willy is caught in a final decision of suicide. Bringing forth much thought regarding humanity and its complications, Arthur Miller has established an exceptional and highly reflective