From Conflict to Identity: Main Issues Explored in US Literary Education - Sykalo Eugen 2023

What is the role of the American Dream in Arthur Miller's play “Death of a Salesman”?

Arthur Miller's magnum opus, "Death of a Salesman," stands as a searing indictment of the elusive American Dream and the destructive power of its false promises. In this haunting tragedy, Miller dissects the corrosive effects of capitalism, the relentless pursuit of success, and the disillusionment that ensues when dreams collide with harsh realities. Through the character of Willy Loman, a down-on-his-luck traveling salesman, Miller offers a piercing critique of the American Dream, exposing the inherent flaws in a society that equates personal worth with financial achievement.

At its essence, the American Dream represents the belief that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve prosperity, success, and happiness through hard work and determination. In "Death of a Salesman," Willy Loman embodies the embodiment of this dream, as he clings to the hope that he can achieve the same level of success as his idolized figures, the self-made businessmen who epitomize the American Dream. Willy's relentless pursuit of wealth and the accompanying trappings of success represents his desperate attempt to validate his own existence and secure his place in society.

However, Miller exposes the dark underbelly of the American Dream, laying bare its inherent flaws and the crushing weight it imposes on those who cannot attain its elusive promises. As Willy's dreams crumble, his mental and emotional state deteriorates, leading to his tragic downfall. Through Willy's character, Miller deconstructs the myth of the self-made man, revealing the harsh reality that success is not solely determined by merit but is often dictated by factors beyond one's control, such as social connections, luck, and circumstance.

The American Dream in "Death of a Salesman" is not portrayed as a beacon of hope and opportunity but rather as a delusion that traps individuals in a cycle of disillusionment and despair. Willy Loman's belief in the American Dream blinds him to the realities of his own life, causing him to place undue value on material success and external validation. Miller's scathing critique extends beyond Willy's personal journey, highlighting the broader societal implications of a dream built on false ideals.

Symbolism plays a significant role in Miller's exploration of the American Dream. The seeds that Willy constantly plants in his backyard symbolize his futile attempts to nurture and cultivate his dreams. Just as the seeds fail to take root and flourish, so too does Willy's pursuit of the American Dream wither under the weight of disillusionment and the harsh realities of an unforgiving society. The symbol of the seeds underscores the fragility and inherent flaws of a dream predicated on false promises.

Furthermore, the character of Willy's son, Biff, serves as a counterpoint to the American Dream's empty promises. Biff, once a promising athlete, represents the disillusioned youth who reject society's preconceived notions of success and search for meaning beyond material wealth. His realization that the American Dream is an illusion marks a turning point in the narrative, highlighting the destructive nature of a dream that fosters competition, greed, and the sacrifice of personal values.

Miller's critique of the American Dream in "Death of a Salesman" extends beyond the individual to encompass the broader societal implications of a system that equates personal worth with financial success. Through the character of Willy Loman, Miller exposes the dehumanizing effects of capitalism and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. Willy's relentless pursuit of success erodes his relationships, erases his sense of self-worth, and ultimately leads to his tragic demise. Miller's play serves as a cautionary tale, warning against the dangers of a society that places material wealth above human dignity and authentic human connections.

Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman" offers a scathing critique of the American Dream and its destructive power. Through the character of Willy Loman and the symbolism of the seeds, Miller exposes the inherent flaws and empty promises of a dream predicated on material success. The play serves as a poignant reminder that the pursuit of the American Dream can lead to disillusionment, despair, and the sacrifice of personal values. Miller's work stands as a powerful testament to the corrosive effects of an unattainable dream and serves as a call to reevaluate our societal values and priorities.