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Choose a play in which you find the fate of a character to be upsetting or moving or shocking - Scottish Highers English - Question 3 - 2023
Question 3
Choose a play in which you find the fate of a character to be upsetting or moving or shocking. By referring to appropriate techniques, briefly explain why you found... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Choose a play in which you find the fate of a character to be upsetting or moving or shocking - Scottish Highers English - Question 3 - 2023
Step 1
Choose a play and identify the character
Answer
In Arthur Miller's 'Death of a Salesman,' I found the fate of Willy Loman to be deeply upsetting. Willy's tragic end, marked by his suicide as a means to provide for his family, captures the profound disillusionment that accompanies the American Dream.
Step 2
Explain the fate of the character
Answer
Willy's fate is shocking because it reflects the extreme pressures of societal expectations and personal failures. His belief that success is equated with being well-liked and financially successful leads him to a tragic conclusion, showcasing the devastating impact of these ideals.
Step 3
Discuss techniques used in the play
Answer
Miller employs various techniques, including flashbacks and symbolism, to deepen the audience’s understanding of Willy's psyche. The frequent shifts in time illustrate Willy’s internal conflict and the haunting memories of his perceived failures. The play's use of the garden as a symbol emphasizes Willy's futile attempts to cultivate success, ultimately leading to his despair.
Step 4
Contribute to appreciation of the play as a whole
Answer
Willy's fate enhances my appreciation of the play, as it serves as a powerful critique of the American Dream and poses essential questions about identity, purpose, and societal values. This tragic conclusion compels audiences to reflect on the cost of unrelenting ambition and the value of human life beyond material success.