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"Death of a Salesman" isn't just a play; it's a reflection of a time and a society undergoing significant changes. Let's dive into the post-World War II era in the United States, unpacking the economic struggles, societal shifts, political changes, and cultural pursuits that shape the narrative of Arthur Miller's masterpiece.
Picture this: it's 1949, just a few years after World War II. The United States is buzzing with changes. The aftermath of the war brought an industrial boom, but not everyone reaped the benefits.
The poorest Americans faced economic hardships, dealing with high inflation that made it a struggle to afford the basics. Policies favored big farmers, leaving small farmers like Happy and Biff, with the lowest-paid jobs, grappling to maintain their dignity in a society where pride meant everything.
Enter the Cold War era, a time when Americans felt the weight of proving that capitalism trumped communism. Willy, our main character, reflects this societal obsession with financial success.
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“ She followed all my directions. It was really easy to contact her and respond very fast as well. ”
Long-term credit became a dangerous game for many, including Willy, trying to show off their success but ending up in a tight spot, unable to provide even the basics for their families. This Cold War attitude manifests in Willy's desperate need for societal acceptance and his constant quest to be "well liked." American society shifted from being motivated by morals and rules to being driven by what others thought of them, leaving folks like Willy struggling to maintain their identity.
Politics played its part too.
After the Great Depression, the government's influence on citizens' lives grew. Throw in the rise of media communication, from radio to television, and suddenly, Americans felt part of a massive, interconnected society. The desire to be accepted in this new world became a driving force, shaping the way people like Willy navigated their daily lives.
Now, let's talk culture. Miller introduces us to three key characters: Willy, Ben, and Biff. These guys, much like many Americans at the time, are chasing "The American Dream." There are two versions of this dream in the play. Willy's version is all about the money, a way to flaunt freedom and liberty by buying material goods. On the flip side, Biff and Ben are after the "go West, young man" mythology, dreaming of the liberty for new adventures. It's a cultural tug of war between material success and the freedom to explore.
And here's where the plot thickens. Characters like Willy personify the struggle of individuals in American society grappling with an identity crisis. It's not just about making ends meet; it's about proving oneself in a society that's changing its values. Biff's statement at the end, saying Willy "didn't know who he was," hits hard. The loss of identity is a profound consequence of this shifting cultural landscape.
In a nutshell, "Death of a Salesman" is a time capsule of post-World War II America. It's not just a play; it's a mirror reflecting economic challenges, societal shifts, political changes, and cultural pursuits. As we journey with Willy, Ben, and Biff, we witness the complex dance between financial success, societal acceptance, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Arthur Miller crafted more than a story; he gave us a window into an era that shaped the very fabric of American identity.
Unveiling Post-WWII America in 'Death of a Salesman'. (2016, Aug 07). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/death-of-a-salesman-context-essay
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