Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman" is an examination of American life and consumerism. It tells the story of an ordinary man who describes this lifestyle. Other issues explored in the play include: materialism, procrastination and alienation. The play is set in 1948, a time when the American dream was highly valued, despite the Great Depression. The American Dream is a belief that emerged in the second half of the 19th century that if you work hard, you will achieve success and prosperity. The American Dream affects our view of Willy Loman as a tragic hero because he believes that the way to achieve a better life is to live the American Dream. Willy Loman thinks he will succeed with the American dream because of his friendly personality. Yet he dies without it, which adds to his tragic downfall. In the play, the American dream is a misperception of the success of Willy Loman and his family. For Willy, the key to success is to be liked. It's a concept that Willy Loman really appreciates. Willy uses himself as an example to be appreciated, especially when he is with his sons. For example, he says: “…Be loved and you will never want it. Take me, for example. I never have to wait in line to see a buyer...” Additionally, this quote shows that Willy Loman likes to exaggerate and brag about his character that he loves. Miller portrays Willy as someone living the dream through his suburban home and his job as a salesman. However, the audience knows from Willy's remark in act two that he is desperate for money: "...- that's all I needed." Forty dollars Howard. This shows that Willy Loman is actually living in financial poverty rather than living the American dream. Miller tries to show that...... middle of paper...... but in general, the American dream is a deceptive idea of ​​success. “Willy Loman begins to understand the truth: his life has reached its peak and many of his dreams have never come true.” Willy Loman wanted to live these dreams to found his American dream. But Miller insists the American dream is just an illusion. Although The American Dream affects our view of Willy as a tragic hero, we conclude from the play that Willy Loman's tragic flaws are what primarily construct this tragedy. .Works CitedArthur, M (1949). Death of a seller. Penguin Books LTD.http://encyclopedia2.thefreedictionary.com/Tragic+drama"Death of a Salesman" - Critical Analysis - By SergeiS55 (October 28, 2006)http://shakespeare.learnhub.com/lesson/4435-elements -of-a-tragic-hero-in-literature