The American Dream: Concept and History

The American Dream is a multifaceted concept that has evolved throughout U.S. history. It encompasses the desire for economic freedom, independence, peace, and wealth, promising a higher standard of living through hard work and moral living.

Definition: The American Dream is the belief that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve success and prosperity through hard work and determination.

The concept is often associated with the idea of "from rags to riches," symbolizing the possibility of moving from poverty to wealth through individual effort. However, the American Dream also faces criticism due to issues such as job loss, exploitation, discrimination, and social inequality.

Highlight: The American Dream is not just about material wealth, but also encompasses happiness, freedom, family life, equality, and democracy.

Historical events and documents have played crucial roles in shaping the American Dream:

1. Pilgrim Fathers (1620): First English settlers who authored the Mayflower Compact.
2. Boston Tea Party (1773): Act of resistance against British taxation.
3. Declaration of Independence (1776): Proclaimed the independence of 13 British colonies in North America.
4. Civil War (1861-1865): Conflict between northern and southern states over slavery.
5. Civil Rights Movement (1955-1968): Struggle for equal rights, led by figures like Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr.

Example: The Mayflower Compact, signed in 1620, set up principles of democracy, justice, and common good, laying the groundwork for the American Dream.

The American Dream in "Death of a Salesman"

Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman" offers a critical perspective on the American Dream, highlighting its potential to create unrealistic expectations and lead to personal tragedy. The play explores how the pursuit of success and wealth can sometimes come at the cost of moral integrity and personal happiness.

Key aspects of the American Dream in the play:

1. Criticism of blind pursuit: The play suggests that an uncritical belief in the American Dream can lead to a unfulfilling life.

2. Moral compromise: Characters like Ben achieve success through questionable means, challenging the idea that hard work alone guarantees success.

3. Illusion vs. Reality: Willy Loman's inability to distinguish between his dreams and reality ultimately leads to his downfall.

4. Generational conflict: The differing views on success between Willy and his sons highlight changing perspectives on the American Dream.

Example: Willy Loman's brother Ben represents the "rags to riches" story, having become wealthy through owning a mine in Africa. However, his success is achieved through morally questionable means, challenging the ethical foundations of the American Dream.

The play also explores the psychological toll of pursuing the American Dream:

1. Willy's mental decline is directly linked to his failure to achieve his vision of success.
2. The pressure to succeed affects family relationships, particularly between Willy and his sons.
3. The characters struggle with defining their own identities outside of societal expectations of success.

Highlight: "Death of a Salesman" serves as a powerful critique of the American Dream, questioning whether the pursuit of material success truly leads to happiness and fulfillment.