The Woman Flashcards
What is effect of The Woman not being named by Miller?
She represents a succession of women that Willy had affairs with over 30 years
Or, the use of definitive article suggest she is the only affair Willy has had, this being why it chips away in his mind
Why does Miller use The Woman?
To show the destructive impact that the event had on Willy’s relationship with Biff, and also the physical manifestation of guilt that Willy had for both Linda and Biff
How is The Woman remembered in the first memory?
She is shown in good light through the laughter, though it may be interpreted mockingly, like she is laughing at Willy
How is The Woman seen in the second memory?
Willy acts disrespectfully and humiliates her infant of Biff; it could be said that he treats her “like a piece of fruit”
How will a feminist critic view The Woman?
As a whore figure compared to the perfect wife of Linda
