Themes of Failure, Self Delusion, and Conflict in "Death of a Salesman"

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Throughout the play “Death of a Salesman” there are multiple themes, some are obvious and others are just noticeable. Much of it revolves around the Main Character Willy and how he has confused reality with constant illusions and dreams. Based on my experience with “Death of a Salesman” I can say that there are multiple themes fused through this play. For example the author used these themes to create a strong central meaning or message that the reader can clearly understand. Overall I believe Arthur Miller has delivered conflict, self-delusion and failure to be the root of the many themes included in his book.

Conflict is detected much around Willy’s character and everything that revolves around him. On one hand he is constantly starting fights and meaningless arguments over absolutely nothing. Yet Charley, a friend of Willy offers him a job “I got a job, I told you that. What the hell are you offering me a job for?” (Death of a Salesman 29) Clearly you can see that Willy is starting problems with no reason what so ever. Nevertheless conflict is highlighted tremendously through t...

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