Death of a salesman Essay

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Death of a Salesman Why come to America? What does America really have to offer, one may ask? What sets America aside, and makes it different from other nations around the world? The “American Dream” simply answers all of these questions. In Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller, Willy Loman, a man hopelessly chasing the “American Dream”, is unsuccessful in his journey to “paradise.” The “American Dream” is the belief that through hard work, patience, and courage, one can achieve success and wealth, no matter where they come or start from. This is why people come to America. It is what many Americans live by, and what all Americans truly desire. Miller portrays the concept of the “American Dream” by connecting it to Willy’s purpose to live. One may believe that the “American Dream” is simply owning a home and having a job, which Willy has accomplished, but it is much more than that. After having to leave his job, Willy questions his view on the “American Dream.” When Willy meets Dave Singleman, he thinks that being a salesman will satisfy all of his dreams and make him the happiest man he can be. In a way, Willy looks up to Dave. Of Dave’s career, Willy says, “And when I saw that, I realized that selling was the greatest career a man could want. ‘Cause what could be more satisfying than to be able to go, at the age of eighty-four, into twenty or thirty different cities, and pick up a phone, and be remembered and loved and helped by so many different people?” (61). In an attempt to achieve happiness, Willy goes after a dream that is not meant for him. The “American Dream” is different for everyone. Death of a Salesman demonstrates this by portraying Willy as a man who takes a wrong turn in his life. What he thinks will make him happy, only leaves him confused and lost. According to Willy, being well-liked is what leads to success. While this may be key component for achieving the “American Dream,” achieving acceptance will not always guarantee success, which is where the “American Dream” misleads. Moreover, when someone seems to have achieved the “American Dream,”
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