Explain ‘American dreams’. How does Arthur Miller prove that the dream is illusory?
Death of A Salesman is a notable literary work by Arthur Miller. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Death of A Salesman.
Answer
Explain ‘American dreams’. How does Arthur Miller prove that the dream is illusory? [2021] ✪✪✪ Or, Discuss the theme of American Dream in Death of a Salesman. [2020]
Or, Explain “the great American dream.” How does Arthur Miller prove that the dream is illusory? [2017]
Arthur Miller (1915–2005), in his play “Death of a Salesman” (1949), presents the failure of the American Dream through the tragic life of Willy Loman. The American Dream promises success through hard work and honesty. But in modern society, this dream becomes false and hollow. Willy believes that being liked and popular brings success. His blind faith in material success and personality leads to mental pain, family conflict, and finally, death. Miller proves that this dream is only an illusion.
Meaning Of The American Dream: The American Dream means success through effort and honesty. It teaches that anyone can rise through work. But Willy misunderstands it. He believes that charm and popularity can bring wealth. He says,
“It’s not what you do… It’s who you know and the smile on your face.”
His dream is false because he ignores real values. He wants fame without work. Miller shows how the true spirit of the dream is lost in modern greed and false ideals.
Willy’s False Idea of Success: Willy believes success depends on appearance and personality. He wants to be “well liked.” He dreams of easy money like his brother Ben, who says,
“I walked into the jungle, and I walked out… I was rich.”
Willy fails because he follows this wrong idea. He teaches the same false dream to his sons. His belief in outer charm, not inner worth, destroys his peace and his family’s happiness. His dream remains a lie until his death.
Conflict Between Dream and Reality: Willy cannot accept the truth of life. He lives in dreams and memories. His world is full of illusion. He says,
“After all the
Unlock this study guide now