Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman is a tragedy that follows the life of Willy Loman, an aging traveling salesman grappling with failure and disillusionment. Set in post-war America, the play critiques the American Dream, focusing on the toll it takes on individuals and their families.
Willy, in his sixties, finds his career faltering. Despite decades of work, he struggles financially and relies on loans from his neighbor Charley to pay the bills. Willy places great value on being well-liked, believing it’s the key to success, but this belief has not brought him the prosperity he desires. Haunted by memories of missed opportunities, he recalls a job offer from his brother Ben, a wealthy businessman, which he refused out of misplaced pride.
At home, Willy’s relationship with his family is fraught with tension. His wife, Linda, remains loyal but is deeply concerned about his mental health. Their sons, Biff and Happy, reflect Willy’s flawed ideals. Biff, once a high school football star, has become disillusioned with his father’s dreams and is unsettled in life. Happy, on the other hand, mimics Willy’s shallow pursuit of popularity and material success.
The play alternates between present events and Willy’s memories, which often blend into hallucinations. He recalls moments of pride and regret, particularly his affair, which Biff discovered years earlier. This betrayal shattered their relationship and Biff’s confidence, contributing to his aimless life.
As tensions rise, Biff tries to confront his father with the truth about their lives, admitting they are ordinary and should abandon grand illusions. Willy, unable to accept this, clings to his delusions of grandeur. He dreams that his death will bring his family financial security through life insurance.
In the climactic confrontation, Biff makes one final plea for his father to see reality. Moved, Willy momentarily recognizes his son’s love but ultimately reverts to his belief that his sacrifice will redeem his failures. The play ends with Willy’s suicide, believing it will provide his family with the insurance money. At his funeral, however, it becomes clear how isolated and misunderstood Willy was, as only a handful of people attend.
Miller’s play critiques the destructive pursuit of the American Dream, exploring themes of identity, self-worth, and family. Willy’s tragic flaws—his pride, inability to adapt, and reliance on superficial values—lead to his downfall, making the play a poignant examination of human vulnerability.