The Theme of Reality and Illusion

In this paper you will expand on your earlier literary analyses to incorporate outside research. You can choose to discuss either The Handmaid’s Tale or Death of a Salesman. As before, analyze a theme or formal element, using citations from the primary source (novel or play) to do so. This time, however, also strengthen your analysis by using and citing in your paper.

You may choose any interpretive approach that you find interesting. For example, you could analyze one of the texts in terms of its psychological, socio-economic, feminist or mythological meanings. With that said, here are some perspectives you might want to consider:

Death of a Salesman:

•What significance does Willy Loman’s occupation have in his tragedy? How does this relate to Arthur Miller’s youthful interest in Marxism and what that ideology says about the role of labor in workers’ lives?

•Willy’s son Biff dreams of moving to a ranch. What does this ranch symbolize to him and to viewers of the play? How does this relate to Willy’s love of gardening? And how does it relate to American mythology about the West?

•Arthur Miller mixes the techniques of Realism and Expressionism for a purpose. How does he do this and why? How does that relate to theatrical techniques of his time period?
Below are some useful links to both databases for secondary sources and websites with advice on how to write analytical essays and research papers. Also included is a link to the Purdue University Online Writing Lab, which you have been directed to in your previous assignments.