Themes in Arthur Miller's play "Death of a Salesman" presented :
1. American Dream:
- The pursuit of success and material wealth as a fundamental aspect of the American Dream.
- The disillusionment and ultimate failure of the American Dream for Willy Loman and his family.
2. Identity and Self-Worth:
- Willy's struggle to define his identity and find self-worth through his career.
- The impact of societal expectations on one's sense of self.
3. Family and Relationships:
- The strained relationship between Willy and his sons, Biff and Happy.
- The consequences of Willy's obsession with work on his family's well-being.
4. Reality vs. Illusion:
- The contrast between Willy's delusions and the harsh reality of his situation.
- The theme of living in a world of illusions to escape painful truths.
5. Capitalism and Consumerism:
- Critique of the capitalist system and its effects on individuals like Willy.
- The emphasis on material success and the commodification of human worth.
6. Betrayal and Abandonment:
- Biff's sense of betrayal and abandonment by his father.
- Willy's feelings of betrayal by the business world and by his own family.
7. Death and the American Dream:
- The play's title itself highlights the theme of death and its connection to the pursuit of the American Dream.
- The tragic ending underscores the cost of Willy's dreams and illusions.
8. Isolation and Loneliness:
- The isolation experienced by Willy, who feels disconnected from those around him.
- The loneliness that results from pursuing the American Dream at the expense of meaningful relationships.
9. Flashbacks and Time:
- The use of flashbacks to explore the past and its impact on the present.
- The non-linear narrative structure highlighting the fluidity of time in memory.
10. The Common Man:
- The portrayal of Willy Loman as an ordinary, working-class individual facing universal human struggles.
- A commentary on the struggles and aspirations of everyday people.
These themes collectively contribute to the depth and complexity of "Death of a Salesman" as a commentary on American society and the human condition.
No comments:
Post a Comment