| Author | Year | Language | Pages |
| Arthur Miller | 1949 | English | 105 |
Death of a Salesman is a classic American play written by Arthur Miller and first performed in 1949. The play is a critical exploration of the American Dream and the pressures that come with it, focusing on the life of Willy Loman, an aging and struggling salesman. The play’s deep examination of personal failure, societal expectations, and family dynamics has made it a cornerstone of American literature and theater.
Key Themes and Plot
The story revolves around Willy Loman, a man who has spent his life chasing the American Dream but finds himself disillusioned and defeated as he faces the reality of his failures. As Willy’s mental state deteriorates, the play shifts between his present life and his memories, highlighting his relationships with his wife Linda and his sons Biff and Happy. Willy’s obsession with success, both for himself and his sons, drives much of the tension in the play.
The play critiques the idea that material success and popularity are the ultimate measures of a person’s worth. Willy’s tragic downfall is a result of his inability to adapt to changing times and his refusal to let go of his idealized vision of success. The title itself reflects the inevitable conclusion of Willy’s journey, marking the end of his lifelong pursuit of unattainable dreams.
