Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller - Essay Example

Realism and Postmodernism: Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller offers a clear depiction of its time society’s enthusiasm meant to attain their aspirations (Sterling 93). This is evident from the main protagonist’s efforts and intentions in realizing his dreams besides those of his sons’ (Sterling 93). According to the then society, realization of one’s dreams entailed hard work coupled with positivity that assumed challenges were insignificant obstacles found between a person and his or her American dream (Sterling 54).

Hence, one has the power to overcome them, though this to the main protagonist seems more of a dream than a reality, but still holds to the notion that, his aspirations are achievable. Conversely, the then days’ circumstances despite people’s efforts proved the entire society that they needed to live a reality. This is palpable from both the Willy and his son’s life whereby the latter despite his father motivating him to excel in life instead is a loser, hence shame to the parents (Sterling 48).

In this literature, the author assumes the role of a spectator all through as the play’s scenes unfold to reveal the utter self-delusion by both Happy and Willy. The latter while advising his sons argues that, an individual can relive own parents’ dreams despite them in their times amounted to nothing. Hence, insisting Biff to hearken his advice, which he defies and holds to being real contrary to the father’s life path (Sterling 54). Biff in this literature divergent to other characters representing the entire society; stands to be an icon of the present’s generations besides giving the author’s stand due to his insistence on reality (Sterling 134).

Work Cited Sterling, Eric. Arthur Millers Death of a Salesman. Amsterdam: Rodopi, 2008. Print.