Death of a Salesman

1.) Discuss in detail the idea that "Death of a Salesman" is not in fact Willy Loman's tragedy, but is rather the tragedy of the fall of the entire Loman family. Explain, through your use of quotations as support, how the secondary characters in Miller's iconic play are the truly tragic ones.

2.) Arthur Miller wanted "Death of a Salesman" to be considered the Great American Tragedy. Using direct quotations from the text as support, argue for this play as the tragedy and downfall of all Americans, rather than simply for Willy Loman.

3.) The women in "Death of a Salesman" often function in a secondary position to the male characters and there are references throughout to physical and verbal abuse towards the women. Using quotations from the play as support, discuss the role of women in Miller's play and argue for what point you think that he is trying to make about the woman's role in American society.

4.) Using Aristotle's definition of a Tragic Hero (you have worksheets to back this up and there is a TON of available research online), argue how Willy Loman is NOT a tragic hero in the traditional sense. Use specific examples from the text as support.

5.) Write an essay focusing on the idea that the sets and stage directions for "Death of a Salesman" as another character. What do these directions and descriptions tell us about Miller's play and his characters? How is the play enhanced by them? Argue for why they are necessary for the progression and understanding of this iconic play.

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