DOAS Act 1

Willy Loman

The main character in 'Death of a Salesman', a struggling salesman who measures success through income and popularity.

Linda Loman

Willy's wife who manages the household emotionally and supports Willy's fragile ego.

Biff Loman

Willy's older son who struggles with his father's high expectations and questions the pursuit of business success.

Happy Loman

Willy's younger son who seeks attention and approval, often overshadowed by Biff.

Charley

Willy's neighbor and friend who is practical and financially secure, offering support to Willy.

Bernard

Charley's studious son who worries about Biff and represents hard work and success.

Ben Loman

Willy's deceased older brother who symbolizes success and wealth.

The Woman

A woman with whom Willy had an affair, representing his infidelity.

The flute music

A motif connecting Willy to his father, suggesting a simpler life in contrast to Willy's urban struggles.

The stockings

A symbol of Willy's guilt and betrayal toward Linda.

Willy's fears

He fears aging, rejection, financial failure, and disappointing his family, reflecting his inner insecurities.

Happy’s role

He lives in Biff's shadow, trying to win attention and often supporting Willy's delusions.

Biff's plan for the future

Biff's hope to get funding from Bill Oliver for a business, reflecting his desire for success.

The source of boys' unhappiness

Biff and Happy feel lost, struggling to reconcile personal happiness with societal expectations.

Willy's self-importance

Willy insists on his value to his employer to protect his pride, showcasing his desperation.

Foil

A character whose differences reveal the qualities of another character, like Biff and Bernard.

American Dream

The ideal of success and prosperity through hard work which Willy and his sons pursue but fail to achieve.

High expectations

The unrealistic standards Willy sets for Biff, causing tension in their relationship.

Success vs. happiness

The central theme in the play questioning if material success is worth the sacrifice of personal fulfillment.

Volatile temperament

Willy's frequent mood swings, depicted through his reactions to small changes and challenges.

Attention must be paid

Linda's assertion that Willy, despite his flaws, deserves recognition and respect as a human being.