Discussion of Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller
Willy Loman is too naïve and superficial to be the hero of a tragedy. To what extent would you agree with this view?
What is a tragic hero?
Willys not a tragic hero- as its someone whose great
Do we feel pity or fear for him (catharsis)?
Flaws in Willy’s character
Views on Biffs occupation
Quotes that support his naivety
The American dream- obsession
Selfless act of dying- brave or foolish
His views on wealth (refer to brother Ben)
How being short of money had impact on his wealth
Willy envisaged a much more successful life for himself, but in reality he was a failure as he tried to attain those unattainable goals. We feel sympathy for his misguided path through life, and disgust for the way he has blindly pursued it, ruining himself and his family in the process.
Willy instilled his sons with the same warped values that have poisoned his own life. In the flashback scenes, when Willy sees his son Biff as a young man, he marvels at his good looks
and popularity, sure that these qualities will equal a remarkable life for Biff.