AO2- How meanings are shaped

Question 1

Structure/form

Answer 1

-Flashbacks evoke pity in the audience- shows extent of his delusions

-The requiem- Miller exploits the tragic element of pathos with Linda crying at the graveside “we’re free we’re free”
-Here, Willy’s status as tragic victim is most keenly felt

Question 2

Symbolism

Answer 2

-“Flute”
-Delusions/memories are accompanied by calmness, happiness and escapism

Question 3

Setting

Answer 3

-Loman house- domestic tragedy
-“Fragile seeming home”

-“All light blacks out”
-Foreboding ending is near

Question 4

Expressionism- music

Answer 4

-Music reveals Willy’s psychological state at different times within play

-Music around women is ‘raw’ and ‘sensuous’= reveals Willy’s guilt as he is unable to prevent the memory of the affair from surfacing

Question 5

Expressionism- staging

Answer 5

-Lighting is used to portray Willy’s dulness but also highlights his suicide attempts
-E.g, the light ‘glows’ over the gas heater

Question 6

Realism- staging

Answer 6

-Mielziner (set designer) used old props like old microwaves to show the Loman’s could not afford top of the range appliances

Question 7

Motif- The garden

Answer 7

-Garden is a motif that symbolises Willy’s desire to create a good life for his family
-One of Willy’s last acts is a futile attempt at planting seeds
-Willy never achieves success or plants his garden= heightens the tragedy and downfall at the end of the play