Sunday, July 15, 2018

How might Willy's madness be judged reasonably in Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller?

Arthur Miller makes it clear that Willy Loman suffers from several mental health issues, but it seems extreme to consider him “mad.” His anxiety and depression are compounded by the difficulties he faces at work and his inflexible attitude toward aging.
His attachment to a narrow idea of success, exemplified by Ben, manifests in visions or hallucinations of conversations with Ben. In addition, he becomes increasingly aware that Biff and Happy do not appreciate him. His excessive concern for his family’s welfare is also misdirected into his decision to take his own life so they will benefit from the insurance.
Overall, Miller urges the viewer or reader to have compassion for this hard-working, ordinary man, not to judge him. This perspective is most clearly conveyed at the play’s end, as Linda implores her sons to look again at their father’s sacrifices and demands that attention be paid to him.

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