Discuss how Death of a Salesman comments on American society and Essay

Discuss how Death of a Salesman comments on American society and values - Essay Example In the story, we see Willy as a desperate man in terms of financial and family relationship success. He is constantly in argument with Biff and is always troubled by his inability to earn more money as compared to his brother Ben. Biff and Happy, at their thirties, are still unable to achieve financial success and are characterized by adolescent behavior. This is in contrast with their cousin, Bernard, who became a well- respected lawyer. Linda is depicted as a sympathetic wife who suppresses her disappointment with their family financial and relationship status. The story culminated in Willy's suicide. The story illustrates how deep-seated is the dream of financial success in American society. The pervading aspiration is to achieve financial success. Willy dreams of making more money like his brother. He still retains his belief that his sons are capable of such success too. However, the story also illustrates how failure to achieve such success can affect the psyche of a person. This is shown by Willy's suicide. His act is the mark of a failed man, but, more importantly, it shows the disparity between his aspirations and his actual achievements. From the story, one can see the implications of the concept of the American dream.