Death of A Salesman

Drama | Arthur Miller
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Why does Willy Think That His Sons Will be Successful in Life in Death of a Salesman?

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Why does Willy think that his sons will be successful in life?

Or, What was Willy Loman’s concept of an ideal salesman? 

Willy Loman, the central character in Arthur Miller's play "Death of a Salesman," believes his sons, particularly Biff, will be successful in life due to several deeply ingrained perceptions and ideals that he holds:

Belief in Personal Charm and Likability: Willy subscribes to the idea that success depends heavily on personal charm and being well-liked. He repeatedly emphasizes that being well-liked will lead to personal and professional success. He sees his sons, especially Biff, as charismatic and popular, qualities he equates with the potential for success.

Projection of Personal Dreams: Willy projects his unfulfilled ambitions onto his sons. His dreams of success were not achieved as he envisioned, so he places his hopes and dreams on Biff and Happy, expecting them to achieve the gre

atness he did not. This projection is intense with Biff, whom Willy considers to have shown great potential in his early years, especially in sports during high school.

Idealization of the Past: Willy tends to idealize the past, remembering when Biff was a star football player and when it seemed like he was destined for greatness. He clings to these memories and believes that Biff can still achieve the success that seemed guaranteed in his youth.

These factors combine to form Willy’s conviction that his sons will be successful despite evidence to the contrary. His beliefs are driven more by hope, delusion, and a desperate adherence to outdated notions of success than by a realistic assessment of their abilities and circumstances.

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Arthur Miller
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from Death of A Salesman