Death of A Salesman

Drama | Arthur Miller
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How is Willy a contrast to his elder brother, Ben?

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How is Willy a contrast to his elder brother, Ben? [2019, 2016] ✪✪✪

“Death of a Salesman” (1949) is one of the most famous dramas by Arthur Miller (1915–2005). In this play, Willy Loman and his elder brother Ben are two opposite characters. Willy dreams but fails, while Ben acts and succeeds. Their contrast shows two different ways of living and thinking.

Dreamer and Doer: Willy is a dreamer who lives on false hopes. He believes success comes from being liked. But Ben is a doer who acts boldly. He says,  

“I walked into the jungle, I came out rich.” 

This shows Ben’s courage and practical spirit.

Failure and Success: Willy fails in business and family life. He works hard but gains nothing. Ben becomes rich through adventure and confidence. Willy’s weakness is his dependence on dreams, while Ben’s strength is his self-reliance. Their contrast shows success needs action, not illusion.

<
p>Weakness and Confidence: Willy feels lost and temporary in life. He says, 

“Dad left when I was such a baby… and I still feel temporary about myself.” 

Ben, on the other hand, feels sure and confident. He never doubts his path or decisions.

Illusion and Reality: Willy lives in a state of illusion, believing that charm brings success. Ben faces reality and wins through hard work. Willy’s false ideas destroy him, while Ben’s realism brings wealth. Miller contrasts the two brothers to show the danger of blind dreams.

In short, Willy and Ben are opposite in every way. Willy’s weakness, failure, and illusion make him tragic, while Ben’s confidence and success highlight true courage. Their contrast gives the play its moral power.

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Arthur Miller
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from Death of A Salesman