The American Dream

Question 1

Willy and the American dream

Answer 1

Linked with the idea of being well liked
Willy’s adherence to the dream means that he bus stays symbols on credit that he can’t afford
Ironic that willy’s funeral is the same day that the last mortgage payment is made

Question 2

Howard’s treatment

Answer 2

Shows how destructive the pursuit of the dream can be
“You can’t eat the orange and throw the peel away - a man is not a piece of of fruit”

Question 3

The American dream

Answer 3

Capitalist belief that if you work hard enough you can be a success in america

Question 4

Willy’s perception

Answer 4

Ability to become prosperous by mere charisma

Question 5

Happy’s perception

Answer 5

Following willy’s footsteps of self delusion

Question 6

Biff’s perception

Answer 6

Deans of nature, outdoors and working with his hands

Question 7

Role as the tragic villain

Answer 7

‘Rags to riches’ idea -> where hard work and persistence leads to success
Miller fabricated the character of a salesman without an identified product -> audience connect with willy better
Creating a worker broken by the industry stems from millers socialist leanings

Question 8

Is the play a critique of the American dream?

Answer 8

According to miller the play isn’t necessarily a critique
Condemns the confusion that enters when people take material success for the end all be all