Context

Question 1

The Great Depression

Answer 1

Crash of stick Marley in 1929, America plummeted into the worst economic downturn it had ever faced.

For Miller, Death of a Salesman illustrated the personal effects of the Great Depression. The shattered dreams of Miller’s family, and of the American people, are reflected in the shattered dreams of Willy Loman.

Question 2

The American dream

Answer 2

Some view America as the land of opportunity, where everyone has an equal change of reward as the result of a productive work ethic.

The American Dream of the 1940’s is reflected in Willy Loman’s desires to achieve social recognition and material success, but his sense of optimism has long been frustrated, and the technology that promises to make life better and more fulfilling perpetually frustrates Loman.