Death Of A Salesman Flashcards
(33 cards)
What is the core delusion of Willy Loman in ‘Death of a Salesman’?
Willy’s belief that personal charm and being ‘well liked’ will bring success.
This belief represents the illusion versus reality theme in the play.
How does Miller portray the American Dream in ‘Death of a Salesman’?
Miller presents the American Dream as a myth that emphasizes superficial traits rather than hard work.
This critique highlights the flaws in societal values.
What societal critique does ‘Death of a Salesman’ offer?
The play critiques a society that values financial gain and outward success over personal worth.
This is contextualized by post-war consumer culture.
What does Willy’s struggle symbolize in the play?
Willy’s struggle is emblematic of the individual caught in a flawed capitalist system.
It reflects the disillusionment with the American Dream.
What does Linda say about Willy’s character?
‘He’s not the finest character that ever lived. But he’s a human being and a terrible thing is happening to him.’
This highlights how capitalist society disregards emotional and psychological well-being.
What narrative techniques does Miller use in ‘Death of a Salesman’?
Miller uses flashbacks and daydreams to blur the boundaries between past and present.
This mirrors Willy’s fractured consciousness and intensifies the audience’s view of his struggle.
How do Willy’s memories affect the audience’s perception?
The audience questions the veracity of Willy’s memories, as seen in his statement about his youth and wealth.
‘When I walked into the jungle, I was 17… And by God I was rich’ reflects a mythical and fantastical view.
What does ‘stockings’ symbolize?
Recurring symbol of guilt; represents Willy’s desire to deny memories such as the affair.
Example: ‘now throw them out’ when he sees Linda mending.
What does the gardening metaphor represent?
Success and failure; reflects Willy’s subconscious acknowledgment that his profession is a poor choice given his natural limitations.
What does the ‘flute’ symbolize in the play?
Independence which Willy could never have as a family man; opens and closes the play showing the complexity of father-son relationships.
How does Willy view his father’s profession?
Willy wishes to be successful like his father, despite his skills lying better in another profession.
What does Willy envision for Biff?
Willy mirrors his own aspirations for success onto Biff, envisioning Biff’s life in the same profession.
What does the expression ‘He made more in a week than a man like you could make in a lifetime’ convey?
It highlights Willy’s admiration for his father’s skills and spirit, contrasting with his own feelings of inadequacy.
What does the setting reflect?
An unstable mind; it mirrors Willy’s psychological state.
What contradiction does Willy express about Biff?
‘Biff is a lazy bum’ contradicts with ‘There’s one thing about Biff - he’s not lazy.’
What were men expected to be in terms of societal roles?
Men were expected to be ‘breadwinners’, providers, and emotionally stoic.
How is success defined for men in this context?
Success is defined by marriage, job, house, and car.
What does Willy feel when he can no longer support his family financially?
Willy feels worthless when he can no longer support his family financially.
What does the idea of ‘emasculation’ and ‘toxic masculinity’ lead to in Willy’s case?
It leads to his suicide, framed as a way to provide for his family.
What were the female virtue expectations for Tess?
Tess’s social value derived from purity and charity.
What was Arthur Miller’s political stance?
Miller was politically left-leaning and critical of capitalism.
Who does Miller believe tragedy should apply to?
Miller believed tragedy should apply to ordinary people, not just kings.
What does Miller’s belief about familial bonds suggest?
Familial bonds are often undermined by societal pressures related to success and materialism.
What relationship gap is highlighted between Biff and Willy?
There is a relationship gap between Biff and Willy.
