Table of contentsBody Paragraph 1: The illusion of the American dreamBody Paragraph 2: The disappearance of the traditional familyBody Paragraph 3: The dehumanizing effects of capitalismBody Paragraph 4: The evolving definition of successCounterargument: Criticisms and alternativesConclusionReferences: Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman" is the timeless story of an aging salesman, Willy Loman, who clings to an optimistic philosophy of the American dream and its associated values while struggling to provide for his family. In this essay, I will argue that the play critiques these values ​​and highlights the dark side of the American dream, particularly its illusion, the disappearance of the traditional family, the dehumanizing effects of capitalism, and the evolving definition of success. no to plagiarism. Get a custom essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essayBody Paragraph 1: The Illusion of the American DreamThe American Dream is the belief that anyone can achieve financial success through a job relentless and determined. In the play, Willy Loman is fooled into thinking that success can be achieved by being "liked" and having superficial charm, rather than by hard work and dedication. This way of thinking leads him to make bad decisions, such as borrowing money to buy his family's gifts, which ultimately leads to his downfall. Additionally, the play challenges the idea that the American dream is a viable concept. According to a recent poll, only 6% of Americans believe the American dream is achievable, showing how the ideals of the dream and the reality of American society are in conflict. This shows the danger of the American Dream, as it has led Americans to work harder than ever while receiving fewer benefits in return. Body Paragraph 2: The Demise of the Traditional Family The Loman family is a dysfunctional family, with Willy being too proud to ask for help when he needs it, leading to a lack of communication between family members . According to research, dysfunctional families like the Lomans can cause psychological stress and even mental illness among family members. Furthermore, the play depicts a post-war society in which traditional family values ​​are breaking down and society is becoming increasingly individualistic, where people only care about themselves. The Lomans' inability to connect serves as a commentary on the societal trends of the time, illustrating the breakdown of relationships and the weakening of collectivism in American culture. . Willy Loman, under the influence of the system he works for, becomes a mere shell of a man as he struggles to follow the societal norms imposed on him. Workplaces are often depicted as hierarchical and oppressive in the play, with the vast majority of workers treated as mere parts of a machine. Furthermore, the play shows how people internalize capitalist values ​​of competition and profit rather than human relationships and well-being. These capitalist values ​​contribute to the lonely, isolated, and humiliated mood that Willy experiences throughout the play. Body Paragraph 4: The evolving definition of success The piece argues that success is not a universal concept and that individuals have different definitions of it. Biff, Willy's son, values ​​authenticity and individualism, while Charley, Willy's neighbor, values ​​practicality and rationality. Willy's desperate quest for success, as defined through the American dream, alienates him from himself and causes his depression/.