74 pages • 2 hours read
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139
Play • Fiction
Brooklyn, New York • 1940s
1949
Adult
18+ years
Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller follows Willy Loman, a struggling 63-year-old salesman in Brooklyn, as he grapples with the failures of his career and family relationships, leading to his mental and emotional decline.
Melancholic
Contemplative
Emotional
Challenging
Bittersweet
241,130 ratings
Loved it
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Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman is praised for its poignant portrayal of the American Dream's failures, with compelling characters and timeless themes. Criticisms include its sometimes bleak narrative and the protagonist's complex, often frustrating decisions. Overall, it remains a powerful, thought-provoking piece of theater.
Readers who appreciate complex character studies and critiques of the American Dream, as seen in works like Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby or Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men, will find Death of a Salesman engaging. Fans of tragedy and deep familial dynamics will also connect with Miller’s exploration of ambition, identity, and societal expectations.
241,130 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Biff Loman
Willy's elder son, who clashes with his father due to diverging beliefs and personal revelations, ultimately seeking to define his own path in life.
Happy Loman
The younger son of Willy, who attempts to follow in his father's footsteps in business, often caught up in the family's web of illusions and ambitions.
Linda Loman
Willy's supportive and patient wife, who is deeply concerned with maintaining family harmony and shielding Willy from harsh realities.
Charley
Willy's neighbor and friend, who contrasts with Willy in his realistic and successful approach to life and business.
Bernard
Charley's son, who represents success through hard work and practicality, in contrast to the Loman family ideals.
Ben
Willy's deceased elder brother, who symbolizes adventure and success achieved outside conventional paths, influencing Willy's aspirations and regrets.
139
Play • Fiction
Brooklyn, New York • 1940s
1949
Adult
18+ years
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