The American Dream is a central theme in Death of a Salesman. The play explores how Willy Loman's pursuit of success and material wealth ultimately leads to his downfall. Willy is a salesman who has always believed in the American Dream, but he has never been able to achieve it. He is constantly chasing after a vision of success that is ultimately unattainable.
As the play progresses, Willy becomes increasingly disillusioned with the American Dream. He realizes that he has been living a lie and that he has never really been happy. He comes to see that the American Dream is a trap that has ensnared him and prevented him from living a fulfilling life.
Willy's story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of pursuing the American Dream at all costs. The play shows how the American Dream can lead to unhappiness, disillusionment, and even death.
Other Themes
In addition to the American Dream, Death of a Salesman explores several other themes, including:
* Family and Relationships: The play explores the complex relationships between Willy and his wife, Linda, and their two sons, Biff and Happy. Willy is a distant and unsupportive father, and his relationships with his sons are strained.
* Loss and Grief: Willy's death at the end of the play is a tragic loss for his family. Linda and Biff are both deeply grieving, and they must come to terms with Willy's death and the failure of the American Dream.
* Mortality and the Afterlife: The play explores the idea of mortality and the afterlife. Willy is haunted by the fear of death, and he is unsure what will happen to him after he dies.
* Social Class and Identity: The play explores the role of social class and identity in American society. Willy is a working-class man who struggles to achieve success in a capitalist society that values wealth and status.