However, Willy does not realize that he has not instilled a sense of responsibility, work ethic, or morals into Happy and Biff. In the play, the protagonist is a failing and ageing salesman who is mentally degenerating on account of his lack of success and diminishing material wealth. Research papers on Death of a Salesman often discuss the fact that the play is seen as the ultimate American tragedy, fitting the literary genre of 'tragedy' perfectly. Centered on the ambitions and tribulations of an American family, Death of a Salesman, is immediately relatable and yet, also prophetic. Willy feels that his sons, especially Biff, have all the tools they need to be successful. Death of a Salesman as Tragedy research papers look at the character of Willy Loman as a tragic figure in literature. Whereas in a Classical tragedy the protagonist was always of noble birth, such as a. The play focuses on the Loman family's tragic story of inflated dreams and thwarted desires. Death of a Salesman would basically fall into the genre of modern tragedy. This genre, or type of literature, works well for the story of Willy Loman, a dramatic character driven to distraction by his desire to be well liked. The grumblings of Joseph Wood Krutch over this issue of genre seem short-sighted today in. People also ask, what type of play is Death of a Salesman?ĭeath of a Salesman is a play, or drama, by Arthur Miller. Two scenes from the 1949 production of Death of a Salesman. He wrecks his car and kills himself to leave his family 20,000 dollars insurance money. When Willy Loman is heard racing off with his car at the end of Arthur Millers play Death of a Salesman, nobody doubts why he is doing so. An over-the-hill salesman faces a personal turning point when he loses his job and attempts to make peace with his family. The play is a montage of memories, dreams, confrontations, and arguments, all of which make up the last 24 hours of Willy Loman's life.Īlso, who killed the salesman? 1 Introduction. Then, what is the point of Death of a Salesman?Īrthur Miller's play Death of a Salesman addresses loss of identity and a man's inability to accept change within himself and society. It is widely considered to be one of the greatest plays of the 20th century. It won the 1949 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and Tony Award for Best Play. Death of a Salesman is a 1949 stage play written by American playwright Arthur Miller.