5 Questions
How does Willy's fear of abandonment influence his desire for his family to conform to the American Dream?
Willy's fear of abandonment makes him want his family to conform to the American Dream in an effort to create a sense of security and stability.
Explain the impact of abandonment on Willy's life and his perception of the American Dream.
The abandonment Willy experiences throughout his life leads to greater despair each time and contributes to his warped vision of the American Dream.
What are the tangible and intangible legacies left by Willy's father when he abandons him and Ben?
Willy's father leaves neither a tangible (money) nor an intangible (history) legacy when he abandons Willy and Ben.
What impact does Ben's departure for Alaska have on Willy?
Ben's departure for Alaska leads Willy to lose himself in a warped vision of the American Dream.
How do Willy's early experiences of abandonment shape his behavior and beliefs?
Willy's early experiences of abandonment lead him to develop a fear of abandonment, influencing his behavior and beliefs throughout his life.
Study Notes
The American Dream
- Willy Loman's interpretation of the American Dream is that a "well-liked" and "personally attractive" man in business will undoubtedly acquire material comforts in modern American life.
- This interpretation is superficial, focusing on attractiveness and likeability rather than hard work and dedication.
- Willy's version of the American Dream is at odds with a more rewarding understanding of the Dream, which emphasizes hard work and diligence as the key to success.
- Willy's fixation on superficial qualities, such as disliking Bernard for being a "nerd", reveals his childish and shallow understanding of the American Dream.
- Willy's blind faith in his interpretation of the American Dream leads to his rapid psychological decline when he is unable to accept the disparity between the Dream and his own life.
- The American Dream, as understood by Willy, is a promise of material comforts and success, but it is an unattainable and unrealistic goal for him.
Explore the themes related to the American Dream in the play 'Death of a Salesman', including Willy's belief in material success through likeability and attractiveness, and the contrasting idea of hard work without complaint as the key to achieving the American Dream.
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