The Absurdity of Life in Arthur Miller's Death of A Salesman: A Psychological Perspective

Abstract

The research paper deals with Arthur Asher Miller's treatment of a very significant social issue during and after one of the worst epochs in the America's history when lower class such as workers suffer a lot as they are neglected and no longer respected which leads to the absurdity of life for the individuals of this important and destitute slice of the U.S. community and almost culminates in dangerous psychological damages to them. In his play, entitled Death of a Salesman (1949), Miller presents the tragic character (Willy Loman) who exerts not only his strenuous efforts but also his entire life in boosting the company where he works but finally he has been frustrated as he has been tossed like a peel of a banana outside the company without even a pension due to his old age. In his masterpiece, Miller (1915-2005) relies heavily on the art of Expressionism when he exploits memories, dreams, flash-back as well as symbols and exaggeration to reveal the emotions, pains and discomfort not only of Willy but also of some of other characters.