Death of a salesman
1. The following quote from Biff seems a little surprising. Interpret the quote and use references from the text to support your analysis. Do you think Biff truly believes these words? Why or why not? Biff: Miss Forsythe, you've just seen a prince walk by. A fine, troubled prince. A hard-working unappreciated prince. A pal, you understand? A good companion. Always for his boys. Be sure to answer the following in your response: Interpret the quote and explain why this it is unusual. Think about Biff's character and what has transpired between Biff and Willy throughout the entire play. Also compare these words to Biff's actions. Use quotes to support your analysis. You may use examples from the present and from Willy's flashbacks. Make sure you focus on conversations and situations involving Charley and Ben. Do you think Biff truly believes these words? Why or why not?
2. There has been great debate over whether Biff is the protagonist of the play or it's Willy. Be sure to answer the following in your response: Explain the characteristics of a protagonist and an antagonist. (You may need to obtain more information on your own about the qualities of these characters.) Evaluate why Biff or Willy fits the characteristics of a protagonist. Use quotes for support. Evaluate why Biff or Willy doesn't fit the characteristics of a protagonist. Use quotes for support. Zero points for incomplete or inaccurate responses.
3. Evaluate Miller's choice of the title Death of a Salesman. Do you agree or disagree with Miller's choice? Why or why not? Would Inside His Head or Grace Period been better titles? Why or why not? Did you feel as if Miller gave away the ending of the play before you even began reading it and it ruined the suspense of the story itself? Explain.