Willy Loman, a Man With A Dream. Character in "Death of a Salesman" by Miller

Willy Loman: A Man With A Dream

A common idea presented in literature is the issue of

the freedom of the individual in opposition to the

controlling pressures of society. Willy Loman, the main

character in Death of A Salesman by Arthur Miller,

epitomizes this type of person; one who looks to his peers

and co-salesman as lesser individuals. Not only was he

competitive and overbearing, but Willy Loman sought after an

ideal that he could never become: the greatest salesman

ever. Determined to make money, Willy became uncontrollable

and somewhat insane. Through his dialogue and actions,

Willy Loman portrays a character of insecurity, persistence,

and unknown identity.

From the very beginning of his life, Willy Loman

experienced problems with his popularity and personality.

His last name is a pun on a 'low man.' He is at the bottom

of the business world as an unsuccessful salesman. In

addition, his theories on life and society prove to be very

degrading, not to mention influential to his mind set every

Arthur Miller, American playwright

Actor Dustin Hoffman with Lee J. Cobb, who origina...

Death of a Salesman (1951 film)

day. Willy believes that being well-liked and having a

personal attractiveness, together, can bring success, money,

and many friends. Ironically, Willy does not have many

friends and many people do not like him. With a beauty

unlike others, Willy thinks that doors will open and

problems will all disappear.

As a salesman, Willy developed many hindrances that

caused his mind to deteriorate. His life as a salesman was

built on a dream that he witnessed as a child. At an early

age, Willy heard of a salesman, Dave Singleman, who could

make his living out of a hotel room. Singleman was very

successful and when he died, people from all over the

country came to his funeral. It was this ideal that Willy

Loman sought after. All he ever...