The final essay requires you to do a character study. You will write not only about the internal conflicts of the characters’, but also the external influences from the era in which it is set. This will require research. Use at least sources on the subject matter along with quotations from the play itself.
Topics to cover in your final essay:
1. How reliable is the narrative in Death of a Salesman?
Consider the following in your answer: Are Willy’s words to be trusted? Biff’s? How does the rotation of time affect the reliability? Is Willy suffering from a psychological breakdown? If so, what is it and what are the symptoms he is exhibiting. can any character be trusted here?
2. What does this play reveal about the American Dream? How does the reader view it through the lens of this “old man”?
Consider the following in your answer: Miller’s view of the concept of the American Dream with other traditional definitions. Is Miller subverting the American Dream or exploring the way it affects one’s expectations? Is it overly cynical (negative) or realistic? Finally, is this subject and tone still relevant today?
3. Discuss one of the many motifs in the play (i.e. stockings, diamonds, garden, jungle/woods, stealing).
Consider the following in your answer: What are the various attitudes about stockings/selected motif? Is the motif selected a symbol in the play as well? If so, how. How does the motif further the plot and overall meaning of the story? Example, the stockings are a symbol that measure Willy’s success, Biff’s recognition of his father’s betrayal, and Willy’s guilt.
4. What is the author’s view on modernity/progress? What is his purpose in including the tape recorder, new car, etc.?
5. Finally, what are the internal and external conflicts between Willy and Biff that set up this climax of the story?
Consider the following in your answer: Have new gas heaters, tape recorders, cars changed the American Dream? Relate how Willy is left behind (hint: title connotations) and is overly reliant on these innovations. Is the little guy able to survive with the advent of progress and sophistication?
8 to 10 page minimum.
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