Examining Character Analysis and Theme - 550 Words

Examining Character Analysis and Theme (Essay Sample) Content: Examining character analysis and themeNameInstitutionDate In the book Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller, Biff Willys first born son, feels that he is compelled to bend away from reality and believe in fantasy world by his father Willy and his brother Happy. He however disagrees with his father and actually shatters his dreams away when he finds his father with a mistress. In his argument, the life lived by his father and brother is unrealistic and he feels there is a need for him to move away from them so that he can be independent and away from his grandiose father and brother. Contrary to his fathers belief, the American dream is just an illusion and one that is not easily achievable. It is according to him filled with dishonesty for example when he finds out that the father has been having an affair with the mistress. Biff, like his father has been suffering due to a superficial misconception of superiority. For instance he has been a football player in high sc hool and with big prospects. This earns him respect from many male friends and admirers from the female counterparts. Similarly his father is building his character on his popularity as a salesman. His likeability is however superficial as he thinks that hard work without complain will make him achieve his American dream. Biff would only come to realize his failures when he fails in math and therefore fails to join college. He confronts it a move that seemingly make him seem rebellious and way below his fathers expectations. WILLY (stops him with): May you rot in hell if you leave this house!BIFF (turning): Exactly what is it that you want from me?WILLY: I want you to know, on the train, in the mountains, in the valleys, wherever you go, that you cut down your life for spite!BIFF: No, no. (Bloom, 1988)sWillys character is displayed in his children. Each child has a character that carries an aspect of Willys behavior. For instance, Happy embodies the self-delusional aspect of Willys character. He is completely doomed as he does not possess the knowledge to question the blind ambition with his father. Instead, the blind ambitions lead him to do many other things that fuel his insatiable sexual drive.Biff on the other hand embodies the strongest aspect of his fathers character. He is able to accept mistake and acknowledge failure and eventually confronts the fear. Biff is also rational and is able to break through lies and confront reality. On one side...