American literature essay. Literary analysis of works and characters - Sykalo Evgen 2023
The Price: The Cost of Lost Dreams: A Literary Analysis of Victor and Walter Franz's Unfulfilled Lives
Arthur Miller
The Price by Arthur Miller presents us with the lingering weight of sorrow and the unsettling effects of unmet expectations. Miller creates a moving picture of lives affected by compromise and the continual longing for what might have been through the nuanced characters of Victor and Walter Franz. The drama explores topics such as missed chances, the influence of regret, and the cost of choosing stability over desire.
The Aftereffects of Missed Chances:
Victor and Walter Franz, two brothers who have been apart for years, are reunited in the play's opening scene. Their disparate lives make their different choices clear right away. The successful businessman Victor represents the traditional quest of material security. In contrast, Walter gave up his steady income to pursue a medical profession, a goal that was tragically dashed by an accident.
Miller highlights the significant influence of their previous decisions on their current lives through their acrimonious exchanges and reflective monologues. Victor struggles with the nagging notion that he gave up his actual hobbies in order to have financial security, even though he appears to be successful. Walter bears the burden of his unrealized potential, tethered by resentment and sorrow. Their divergent experiences serve to emphasize the common conflict that arises when people try to balance their aspirations with the demands of everyday existence.
The Strength of Remorse:
In the play, regret acts as a potent motivator, influencing the characters' decisions and behaviors. Victor's want to atone for his past transgressions and let go of his remorse drives his attempts to make amends with Walter and his late father. Walter finds it difficult to move on and find closure since he is so overcome with resentment and bitterness.
Through their exchanges, Miller investigates the destructive power of protracted regret. It creates a climate of alienation, impedes personal development, and keeps people from reconciling with their history. The play is a warning story that challenges us to face our decisions and accept accountability for the life pathways we select.
The Cost of Safety:
The disparate lives of the people provide an engaging examination of the cost of choosing stability over desire. Victor looks successful on the outside, yet he seems unfulfilled in the end. His material wealth and belongings don't provide him a true feeling of fulfillment or direction in life. He longs for the emotional and intellectual satisfaction he gave up for security in his finances.
Even though Walter's life has been difficult and disappointing, it still has a genuine quality. In spite of hardship, he never wavered from his love of medicine. He experiences inner tranquility that his sibling is unable to achieve because of this commitment, despite the costs.
In summary:
The Price is a strong illustration of the lasting effects of unmet expectations and the enduring force of sorrow. Through the intricate paths of the characters, Miller challenges us to examine our own decisions and consider the price we pay for choosing stability over passion. The play is a moving reminder that, although having a safe and comfortable existence is desirable, one's genuine goals and the possibility of greater fulfillment should never be sacrificed in the sake of security and comfort.
Other Things to Think About
The drama also examines the value of forgiveness, generational conflict, and family ties.
Miller uses a variety of literary techniques, including dramatic irony and symbolism, to highlight the issues and increase the play's emotional impact.
Audiences are still moved by The Price, which inspires contemplation on decisions made on a personal level, the value of following one's passions, and the enduring strength of familial ties.