Structure

Question 1

External plot

Answer 1

Charts the last 24 hours of willy’s life but miller entwines events from willy’s past -> events suggest why willy has arrived at a point when only his life insurance makes sense
24 hours show willy’s mind under stress suggesting the inevitability of breakdown

Question 2

Insights into the past

Answer 2

Show willy’s shortcomings and tragic denials

Question 3

Requiem

Answer 3

Miller begins and ends the play with Linda -> nervous anxiety in act 1 parallels the disquieting grief demonstrated at the end when she calls out to him again
Roman Catholicism church uses term as a mass for those who have died -> miller suggesting willy’s life is worth remembering
Miller exploits the tragic element of pathos with Linda crying at the graveside ->”we’re free, we’re free”

Question 4

Subplots

Answer 4

Biff and willy’s relationship
Mother and son relationship
The affair