Analysis of the passage in the text (Penguin: page 25, “Willy: Bernard is not well liked, is he?” – page 27, “Willy: “What do we owe?”)
This passage from the first act of Arthur Miller’s drama “Death of a Salesman” displays one of the numerous flashbacks of Willy Loman, who represents the main character and moreover a complex round character. With this reflection of the past the reader or spectator is able to share in Willy’s and his former family life; a family life that is harmonious, easy, joyful or simply all in all perfect.
For Willy this ideal world is very important as ideals are in general. He places special value on a good image, which can be seen in the very first question of the passage “Bernard is not well liked, is he?” , which he addresses to his sons Biff and Happy. With the simile “you’re both built like Adonoises”1, which Willy is thankful for and moreover very proud of, and the statement that his sons “are going to be five times ahead of [Bernard]”1 because of their appearance, it becomes clear that he is of the opinion that attractiveness which results in “personal interest”1 and popularity is the only way to become big in business – which is pretty unrealistic already because good grades are necessary to enrol in college, and contents taught in college are in the majority of cases necessary to become big in business. It is furthermore visible that Willy builds his hopes on Biff and Happy. For them he is a role model and he seems really confident of being a good one: “Be liked and you will never want. You take me, for instance. I never have to wait in line […].” He is also sure of the fact that he is well known and welcome everywhere he goes which is indicated by the following statement “’Willy Loman is here!’ That’s all they have to know […].” Another pleasure in Willy’s life is to share his work with his sons by telling them stories about it. He then tends to exaggerate, as it is seen in his self praise-hyperbole “knocked ’em cold in Providence, slaughtered ’em in Boston.”3, in order to bring his business success near to them.
Table of Contents
- Analysis of the passage in the text (Penguin: page 25, “Willy: Bernard is not well liked, is he?” – page 27, “Willy: “What do we owe?”)
- Characterization of Willy Loman
- Willy's relationship to Linda
- Relationship between a father and his sons
- Biff, the star
- Happy, the spectator
- Dialogue or monologue?
- Relation between the passage and the drama “Death of a Salesman”
- Charley - Antagonist or best friend?
- Destroyed dreams
- The final payment
- Evaluation – Marxist literary criticism
Objectives and Key Themes
The objective of this analysis is to examine a specific passage from Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman," focusing on the characterization of Willy Loman and his relationships with his family. The analysis explores the themes presented within this passage and connects them to broader themes within the play as a whole.
- The complexities of family dynamics
- The American Dream and its disillusionment
- The importance of appearances versus reality
- Intergenerational relationships and expectations
- The nature of success and failure
Chapter Summaries
1. Analysis of the passage in the text (Penguin: page 25, “Willy: Bernard is not well liked, is he?” – page 27, “Willy: “What do we owe?”): This passage, a flashback sequence from Act 1, reveals much about Willy Loman's character and his relationships. Willy's preoccupation with appearances and popularity is evident in his questioning of his sons' social standing compared to Bernard. His boastful exaggerations about his business success highlight his need for validation and his disconnect from reality. The interaction with Linda reveals a strained dynamic built on unspoken anxieties about finances and Willy's professional failures, masked by a facade of loving affection and traditional gender roles. The scene showcases Willy's flawed attempts to instill his values in his sons, setting the stage for the play's exploration of the American Dream's corrosive effects.
1.1. Characterization of Willy Loman: This section delves into Willy Loman's personality, revealing his insecurities, need for external validation, and the disconnect between his self-image and reality. His prioritization of likability over substance, his exaggerated accounts of success, and his reliance on superficial measures of achievement all contribute to a complex portrayal of a man grappling with his failures. The analysis demonstrates how Willy's character flaws drive the plot and shape his relationships with his family and peers.
1.2. Willy's relationship to Linda: This section examines the dynamic between Willy and his wife, Linda. While outwardly presenting a loving and harmonious marriage, their interaction reveals underlying tensions and unspoken resentments. Linda's role as the practical and supportive wife contrasts with Willy's grandiose self-image. Linda's attempts to support Willy despite his flaws underscore the complexities of their relationship, demonstrating the emotional toll of Willy's failures and the strength and resilience required of Linda.
1.3. Relationship between a father and his sons: This section analyzes Willy's relationship with his sons, Biff and Happy. The analysis highlights the contrasting personalities of Biff and Happy, and how they embody different aspects of Willy's idealized image of success. Willy's emphasis on superficial achievements and his projection of his own dreams onto his sons are examined, showing how his flawed parenting contributes to the sons' own struggles and challenges. The analysis also explores the complex dynamics within the family unit.
Keywords
Death of a Salesman, Willy Loman, American Dream, family relationships, father-son relationships, appearance vs. reality, success, failure, disillusionment, social status, Marxist literary criticism.
Death of a Salesman: A Comprehensive Analysis - FAQ
What is the purpose of this analysis?
This analysis examines a specific passage from Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman," focusing on Willy Loman's character and his relationships with his family. It explores themes within this passage and connects them to broader themes in the play.
What passage from the play is analyzed?
The analysis focuses on a passage from Act 1 (Penguin edition, pages 25-27), beginning with Willy's comment about Bernard's unpopularity and ending with his question, "What do we owe?".
What are the key themes explored in the analysis?
The analysis explores the complexities of family dynamics, the American Dream and its disillusionment, the importance of appearances versus reality, intergenerational relationships and expectations, and the nature of success and failure.
How is Willy Loman characterized in the analysis?
Willy is portrayed as insecure, needing external validation, and disconnected from reality. He prioritizes likability over substance, exaggerates his successes, and relies on superficial measures of achievement. His flaws drive the plot and shape his relationships.
What is the nature of Willy's relationship with Linda?
While outwardly loving, their relationship reveals underlying tensions and unspoken resentments. Linda's practicality contrasts with Willy's grandiose self-image. Her support despite his flaws highlights the complexities and emotional toll of his failures.
How are Willy's relationships with his sons, Biff and Happy, analyzed?
The analysis contrasts Biff and Happy's personalities and how they embody different aspects of Willy's idealized success. Willy's flawed parenting, emphasizing superficial achievements and projecting his dreams, contributes to their struggles. The complex family dynamics are also explored.
What is the significance of the chosen passage within the larger context of "Death of a Salesman"?
The passage serves as a microcosm of the play's larger themes. It reveals Willy's character flaws, dysfunctional family dynamics, and the corrosive effects of the American Dream's pursuit.
What is the overall approach of the analysis?
The analysis uses a close reading of the text to understand character development, relationships, and thematic concerns. It connects the specific passage to broader interpretations of the play.
What are some key words associated with this analysis?
Death of a Salesman, Willy Loman, American Dream, family relationships, father-son relationships, appearance vs. reality, success, failure, disillusionment, social status, Marxist literary criticism.
Where can I find a table of contents for this analysis?
The provided HTML includes a detailed table of contents outlining the specific sections of the analysis.
Is there a summary of the key findings?
Yes, the HTML provides chapter summaries that offer concise overviews of the key arguments and findings within each section of the analysis.
- Citation du texte
- Martina Olonschek (Auteur), Klaus Köhring (Auteur), 2006, Recension of Arthur Millers "Death of a Salesman", Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/76185
