Search for the American Dream in Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller What is the American Dream? Some believe in the ideal of the 1950s created through television. Successful children, perfect families, and a happy, stay-at-home mother are all associated with this version. However, everyone knows that children are not always successful, there are quarrels in the family, and not all mothers can be at home and happy. Many families search their entire lives for the ideal American dream and never find one. These types of families are seen as failures. A family on this type of quest is represented in Death of a Salesman through Willy, Linda and their children. Willy Loman is the first character to represent the pursuit of the American dream. First and foremost, Willy is a firm believer in the American dream because of his brother Ben. "Boy, when I was seventeen I went into the jungle, and when I was twenty-one I left. And by God I was rich." This quote from Ben is the basis of Willy's beliefs for himself and his family. With this understanding, Willy thinks he will never need to look for anything; would have occurred to him. Later, Willy instills this same belief in his children. "Listen here. This is your Uncle Ben, a great man! Tell my boys, Ben!" When Willy states this to Ben, he wants his boys to have the same thoughts about life that he does. However, like their father, the two sons are led to the idea that greatness will come to them. Ultimately, Willy never understands his quest until the end of the show. "What-what's the secret?" Willy asks Bernard this question which shows that he is still searching for the key to the American dream. At the end of the play, Willy believes that the only answer to his family's success is his death. Linda Loman is the next character to represent her pursuit of the American dream. At first, Linda's search is for good family relationships. After the big plans for the sporting goods store are made, Linda's spirits seem very high. Everyone in his family gets along, so he is happy. These little benefits of happiness are enough to keep his dream alive. So, Linda has a truer view of her family's quest. Comments like "You're such a guy" and "You're a womanizing bum" are insights into what Linda sees in her children.