Death of a Salesman is a play written by Arthur Miller in 1949. It tells the story of Willy Loman, a salesman who has been struggling to make ends meet for his family for years. Despite his hard work and determination, Willy is unable to achieve the success that he desires, and this failure ultimately leads to his tragic demise. The play explores themes of family, masculinity, and the American Dream, and has become a classic of American literature.
One possible thesis for an essay on Death of a Salesman could be:
"In Death of a Salesman, Arthur Miller uses the character of Willy Loman to critique the destructive effects of the American Dream on the individual and society."
This thesis statement captures the central theme of the play, which is the way in which the pursuit of the American Dream can lead to disillusionment and failure. Willy Loman is a tragic figure because he has dedicated his life to the pursuit of success and wealth, but he is unable to achieve these goals despite his hard work and determination. The play suggests that the pursuit of the American Dream, as it is traditionally defined, is ultimately futile and can even lead to self-destruction.
Another possible thesis for an essay on Death of a Salesman might be:
"In Death of a Salesman, Arthur Miller uses the characters of Willy and Linda Loman to explore the complex and often tumultuous relationships within a family."
This thesis statement focuses on the relationships within the Loman family and how they contribute to the play's themes of family and masculinity. Willy and Linda's relationship is characterized by love and mutual support, but it is also marked by tension and conflict. Willy's inability to provide for his family financially and emotionally puts a strain on his relationship with Linda, and their sons Biff and Happy struggle to live up to their father's expectations. Through the relationships within the Loman family, Miller reveals the ways in which family dynamics can both support and undermine an individual's sense of self and well-being.
Overall, there are many possible directions that an essay on Death of a Salesman could take, and a strong thesis statement will depend on the specific focus of the essay. However, no matter what direction the essay takes, it is likely to engage with themes of the American Dream, family relationships, and masculinity, as these are central to the play.