Themes and Symbols in Death of a Salesman

Act 2 of 'Death of a Salesman' begins with Willy Loman feeling optimistic after a restful night. He plans to buy seeds and dreams of retiring in the country. However, his meeting with his boss, Howard, ends in disappointment as he is dismissed despite his long service. The act highlights themes of self-deception and the harsh realities of Willy's life, contrasting his hopeful dreams with his actual circumstances.

What is Willy's mood at the start of Act 2?

• Angry

• Indifferent

• Sad

• Cheerful

What does Willy plan to buy, despite Linda's concerns?

• A house

• A vacation

• Seeds

• A new car

What does Linda suggest Willy should ask his boss for?

• A transfer

• A promotion

• An advance

• A day off

Where are Biff and Happy planning to take Willy for dinner?

• A fancy restaurant

• Their home

• The local diner

• Frank's Chop House

What is Willy's hope for his meeting with Howard?

• To retire

• To get a raise

• To resign

• To secure a New York job

How does Howard respond to Willy's request for a New York job?

• He agrees

• He ignores it

• He considers it

• He laughs

Who is Dave Singleman?

• Willy's friend

• An old salesman who inspired Willy

• A fellow salesman

• Willy's boss

What does Willy use Dave Singleman's story to illustrate?

• The importance of retirement

• The value of hard work

• The ideal of a successful salesman

• The need for a vacation

What does Willy's plan to grow plants symbolize?

• His love for gardening

• His self-deception

• His financial success

• His control over life

What ongoing struggle does Willy face?

• Getting financially ahead

• Finding a new job

• Maintaining his health

• Improving his marriage