Author: Tripti Kumari & Dr. Rashmi Raikumar
DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.70798/PP/030200012
Abstract: Arthur Miller is widely recognized as one of the most influential American dramatists of the twentieth century. His plays explore the complexities of human relationships, social expectations, morality, and the consequences of pursuing unattainable dreams. Among his major works, Death of a Salesman (1949) occupies a significant place in modern drama for its critique of the American Dream and its portrayal of family dynamics. Although the play primarily focuses on Willy Loman’s struggles and failures, the female characters play a crucial role in shaping the narrative and revealing the emotional and social realities of American society. This study examines the role of women in Death of a Salesman, particularly through the characters of Linda Loman and Miss Forsythe. Employing feminist literary criticism as a theoretical framework, the article explores how women function as caregivers, moral anchors, emotional supporters, and symbols of resistance within a patriarchal society. The study argues that despite their limited presence on stage, female characters significantly influence the development of the plot and provide insight into the gender expectations and social constraints of post-war America. Through their resilience, sacrifice, and emotional strength, women emerge as indispensable figures whose contributions sustain family structures and challenge traditional notions of female passivity.
Keywords: Arthur Miller, Death of a Salesman, Women, Feminism, Linda Loman, Patriarchy, Gender Roles, American Dream.
Page No: 94-101