American Dream

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Recommended: Major themes and dramatic techniques in the death of a salesman

From white-picket fences, big executive jobs and 2.5 kids, everyone imagines their perfect lifestyles differently. The play Death of a Salesman, by Arthur Miller, short story Secret Life of Walter Mitty, by James Thurber and movie trailer for the 2013 adaptation, are all examples that reveal the different aspects of what it takes to achieve the American dream. Living the picture-perfect American dream can often be impossible, due to the many extensive fantasies and goals that are necessary in order to acquire it.
Throughout the play Death of a Salesman, the protagonist Willy establishes standards for himself and his family, believing that in order to have it all, one must cheat their way. Living in the Loman house hold, Happy, the oldest son has become adapted to the idea of cheating in order to get ahead. In order to live up to his father’s expectation and have the life he wants, Happy believes becoming the merchandise manager is essential. While sitting in their old bedroom Happy explains to Biff how he plans to achieve this goal: “Sure, the guy’s in line for the vice-presidency of the store. I don’t know what gets to me, maybe I just have an overdeveloped sense of competition or something, but I went and ruined her, and furthermore I can’t get rid of her. And he’s the third executive I’ve done that to. Isn’t that a crummy characteristic? And to top it all, I go to their weddings! Like I’m not supposed to take bribes. Manufactures offer me a hundred-dollar bill now and then to throw an order their way. You know how honest I am, but it’s like this girl, see. I hate myself for it. Because I don’t want the girl, and still, I take it and-I love it!” (Miller 25). Happy thinks that by sleeping with other employee’s wifes/girlfriend...

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...Willy: No, that would be terrible
Ben: Yes. And a damned fool.
Willy: No, no he mustn’t. I won’t have that! He is broken and desperate (Miller 127).
Despite the outrageous plan, Ben tries to reason with Willy by telling him that his sons will not be grateful on how they received the money. Also, Ben brings up the point that he will get caught trying to cheat the insurance company. For a man such as Willy Loman, cheating has never been a resolution he can’t depend on. Willy doesn’t care that cheating is wrong, as long as his sons are able to start the company and make something of themselves. He has taught himself and his family that by cheating you are able to get ahead quicker.
The short story “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” and movie trailer for the 2013 adaptation portray a character that is looking to feel more important, by taking on the roles of others.

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