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How Is Escapism In Death Of A Salesman

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In Death of a Salesman, Arthur Miller utilizes motifs and symbols to show that one’s dreams are not always a reality, and that dreams can be preferable to facing the truth; therefore like Willy will try to escape reality. A symbol that Miller uses to show escapism is the stockings that Willy gives to The Woman, whom Willy has an affair with, but not giving any stockings to his own wife, Linda. This is a symbol of infidelity since Willy is prioritizing another woman, above his own wife, Linda. This affair may stem from the fact that Willy feels he is worthless and wants to have someone that appreciates his work by complimenting him. The Woman tells Willy that “[she] picked [him]” (Miller 38), making Willy feel that he deserves that …show more content…

Willy’s desire to plant seeds symbolizes his wish for a new beginning of success even though nothing can grow in the garden. At this time, Willy is escaping reality because Willy wants a road to success to redeem himself from his previous failures. Miller does not have Willy admit that his reality is different from his ideal dreams because he wants him to have the hope that everything will be better even when he does not have to face it. Willy and Linda both understand that his seeds will most likely not grow because there is “not enough sun.” (72) to help the seeds grow. Miller makes Willy believe that planting seeds will have a positive outcome so that his dreams will become a reality. However, in this situation, it never will because the ingredients of success, like the sun, are not prominent in their lives therefore, they cannot grow to be successful. The seeds could also symbolize Willy’s attempt at being a good father so that he can provide for his children; however, since he lost his job and cannot grow food, it is seen as tragic. Miller has made Willy a pathetic character which allows it be acceptable for Willy to want to escape reality into his own dreams and

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