Themes in DoaS

Death of a Salesman has quite the array of themes, mostly due to the extremely complex character of Willy. The American Dream is very present in this play, shown, so far, by Ben and Willy. Ben perfectly embodies the American Dream; he walked into the jungle and came out a man. In other words, he conquered his own destiny and took control of his life. Willy, on the other hand, was unable to grasp his career and really succeed, just like Biff.

The theme of materialism or that a man's worth is determined by his paycheck or net worth also appears everal times in the play. The broken things around the house must be fixed, which costs money. Money that Willy does not have, ergo he cannot provide for his family so his worth is very low. Money certainly plays a role in the world, but its not the only thing. A person's personality is the most important factor in determining his or her worth as a person, not how much money they make.

Finally, the neverending hunt for true love is yet another theme in the play. Willy searches for it both in Linda and in his mysterious mistress, though I don't think he knows which he loves more. Linda loves Willy like he won't be there tomorrow, which becomes true by the end of the book. Happy yearns for a steady woman, but up to now hasn't been able to and shows no sign of improving. Overall, the love in the Loman family is scattered and unorganized, but its there.

Death of a Salesman Part One

Willy, the main character in Death of a Salesman, is quite an odd fellow. Withered with age, he has become delirious and borderline insane. Nonetheless, he tries to raise his two sons in the way that he sees fit: with respect and ambition. Values such as honesty, respect, and hard-work are some of the main teachings that Willy attempts to instill in Biff and Happy. Most of all, he proclaims likability. Willy says that a person who is smart and well rounded can achieve nothing if they are not well-liked by those around him-customers, bosses, colleagues, friends, etc. If a man can get people to like him, he can get them to do anything.

Willy, although a solid father, has grown old and his mind has drastically slowed down as he aged. He constantly contradicts himself when he talks with Linda. Not just on one subject, but over many-the Chevy, his own likability, and Biff. These contradictions show that either Willy has gone completely insane or his mind quickly changes from one idea to another without any recollection of what just happened. Either way, it's quite difficult to understand or follow him. Linda, Willy's wife, does an amazing job supporting Willy. She always helps him and endures through his yelling. She comes off as eager to help and very supportive and strong. Without her or another woman like her, Willy would have fallen apart long ago.