Biff Loman

Definition

Biff Loman is a central character in Arthur Miller's play 'Death of a Salesman,' representing the struggles and disillusionment of the American Dream. As the son of Willy Loman, Biff embodies the conflict between personal identity and societal expectations, grappling with his father's unrealistic aspirations and his own sense of failure. His journey highlights the impact of familial relationships and the harsh realities of pursuing success in post-war America.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Biff Loman's character arc reflects his journey from a hopeful young man to someone who becomes disillusioned with the expectations placed on him by his father and society.
2. The conflict between Biff and Willy represents the generational struggle, as Biff seeks to forge his own path, rejecting Willy's dreams for him.
3. Biff's realization that he is not cut out for the corporate world serves as a turning point in the play, emphasizing themes of authenticity and self-acceptance.
4. His relationship with his father is pivotal, as it reveals the psychological pressures within families that can lead to emotional trauma and identity crises.
5. Ultimately, Biff's acceptance of his reality signifies a rejection of the flawed values tied to the American Dream, making him one of Miller's most significant characters.

Review Questions

• How does Biff Loman's character represent the conflict between individual aspirations and societal expectations?
  • Biff Loman's character illustrates this conflict as he struggles between his father's dreams and his own desire for authenticity. Initially influenced by Willy's high expectations, Biff faces an internal battle when he realizes that he does not want to follow in his father's footsteps. His journey signifies the challenges individuals face when trying to carve out their own identities amid societal pressures.
• In what ways does Biff's relationship with Willy highlight the themes of failure and disillusionment within 'Death of a Salesman'?
  • Biff's tumultuous relationship with Willy showcases the generational divide and the pain caused by unrealistic dreams. As Willy places immense pressure on Biff to succeed, their interactions reveal the disappointment both characters feel. This relationship serves as a microcosm of broader societal failures, where personal ambitions are overshadowed by unattainable ideals.
• Evaluate how Biff Loman's rejection of the American Dream serves as a critique of its core values in 'Death of a Salesman.'
  • Biff's eventual rejection of the American Dream encapsulates a profound critique of its values. As he confronts his own limitations and accepts who he truly is, he moves away from materialistic success towards personal fulfillment. This transformation reflects Miller's commentary on the false promises of the American Dream, revealing how such ideals can lead to despair rather than genuine happiness.

Related terms

Willy Loman: The protagonist of 'Death of a Salesman,' Willy is a struggling salesman whose obsession with success and the American Dream ultimately leads to his downfall.

American Dream: A national ethos that encourages individuals to achieve success through hard work and determination, often critiqued in modernist works for its unrealistic nature.

Tragedy: A dramatic genre characterized by serious themes and the downfall of the protagonist, often leading to a cathartic experience for the audience.