Comment on the Role of Linda in Death of a Salesman.

Answer

Comment on the role of Linda in Death of a Salesman.

In Arthur Miller’s (1915-2005) play “Death of a Salesman,” Linda Loman is the wife of the main character, Willy Loman, and the mother of their two sons, Biff and Happy. Linda’s role in the play is essential to understanding the story’s themes. She works as a motivator for the other characters. Here are some of the key points to consider about Linda’s role in “Death of a Salesman”:

Linda as a devoted wife: Linda is loyal to her husband, Willy Loman. Despite his flaws and the challenges they face, she cares for him when he is sick. She listens to his worries and tries to comfort him when he is down. However, her love for Willy is unthinkable. Linda reminds him of his good qualities, saying, 

You’re the handsomest man in the world.

Inspiration for her Husband: Linda is the inspiration for her husband. She represents the traditional values of the past, including the importance of family, hard work, and honesty. She is deeply rooted in the values of the American Dream, which Willy believes in but can no longer achieve. In this sense, Linda is in contrast to the younger generation, such as Biff and Happy, who are more interested in material success than in family values. Linda says about her husband: 

He’s a human being, and a terrible thing is happening to him … attention must be paid.

Linda defends her husband when she claims that all human suffering requires attention. 

Linda is a foil to Willy: Linda’s character contrasts with Willy’s. While Willy is focused on his dreams of success and wealth, Linda is more concerned with their family’s well-being and happiness. She is the voice of reason and morality, contrasting Willy’s idealistic thinking and dishonesty.

Linda is a victim of patriarchy: Linda’s character is also a victim of the patriarchal society she lives in. She is often ignored or dismissed by the male characters in the play, including her sons, who are more interested in their father’s approval than in their mother’s feelings. Linda’s life revolves around her husband and children. She rarely has the opportunity to pursue her interests or goals.

Linda as a Tragic Figure: Linda is also a tragic figure in the play, as she is forced to watch her husband’s mental decline and, ultimately, suicide. When Willy is fired from his job, Linda tries to comfort him, saying,

It’ll pass, honey. You’ll see. You’ll feel better in the morning.

Linda’s role in Willy’s death: Linda’s role in Willy’s suicide is complex. On one hand, she is unaware of the full extent of Willy’s mental illness and despair. She believes he is going through a rough patch and tries to support him as best she can. However, on the other hand, her loyalty to Willy and her unwillingness to confront his problems head-on may have contributed to his tragic end.

Linda is a complex and multi-dimensional character in “Death of a Salesman.” She represents the traditional values of the past, contrasts Willy’s character, and is a victim of the patriarchal society she lives in.