The main theme in Death of a Salesman is illusion versus reality.

Willy has lived his entire life in a world of illusions. These

illusions include Willy's belief that being well-liked is the key to

success, as well as the literal illusions that Willy has of his past.

Originally, Biff shared Willy's illusions of success and greatness,

but by the end of the play he has become completely disillusioned.

Once Biff comes to fully understand his place in life, he says to

Willy, "I'm a dime a dozen, and so are you." Willy, however, has lived

too long in his dreams and cannot understand what Biff is trying to

say. If Willy had to face reality, he would then be forced to examine

the affair he had in Boston, his philosophy, and all of his illusions.

Instead, he prefers to live in the past. And now Biff, who is trying

to confront the truth about himself, finds that he is completely

unable to commuicate with his father.

inability to face the realities of modern society. Willy's most

instances, however, Happy's remarks are dismissed as unimportant. Thus

tries to prevent Willy from learning that Biff did not get the loan.

simply misguided by inadequate values.

was able to make a living simply by staying in his hotel room and

The main conflict in Death of a Salesman deals with the confusion

steals Bill Oliver's fountain pen after trying to get a loan for his

and having personal attractiveness. Willy builds his entire life

Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 1136
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)