Impact of Society in Death of a Salesman by Arthur MillerDeath of a Salesman by Arthur Miller examines outside influences on 'individual. These influences include society as a whole, the family as a societal unit, and the beliefs that the individual feels they should hold. To understand Willy Loman and the struggles he faces, one must first understand the society in which he exists. He draws on a slightly different set of values ​​and motivations than everyone else seems to be, which sets him apart. A great example from the rest of society is Willy's brother, Ben. In sociological terms, Ben is a classic representative of the old 19th century middle class, while Willy represents the new middle class, dependent, salaried and pathetically oriented towards others. Ben's character is clearly inward-oriented... Whereas Willy emphasizes the importance of personality, of being "liked" and acceptable by the world, of pleasing others, while insisting on a form, a dress , an appropriate manner and style, Ben knows nothing of this. (Martin 56) Willy looks to the rest of society for guidance, to see how he should act to succeed on his terms. Yet he can't completely abandon the belief that his way of trying to "please everyone, all the time" is the right way. Society is made up of people like Ben who are looking to get ahead. It is an industrial society in full expansion; people need to act quickly to stay on top. They no longer have time to indulge in the old ways. Willy has been working for many years, but he can't keep up. Ultimately, this is why he is fired from his job. His boss, Howard, explains it to him. Howard: I don't want you to represent us. I... middle of document......4) Although there is some disagreement as to the effect of Willy's actions on Biff once the curtain falls, it is clear that Willy's behavior Willy destroyed the family unit as the Lomans knew it and destroyed Willy as well. The play ends, however, by focusing on the remaining member of the Loman family. They still constitute a societal unit and they must continue to live as best they can in the modern material world. Works Cited Baym, Franklin, Gottesman, Holland et al., eds. The Norton Anthology of American Literature. 4th ed. New York: Norton, 1994. Costello, Donald P. "Arthur Miller's Circles of Responsibility: A View from a Bridge and Beyond." Modern drama. 36 (1993): 443-453. Martin, Robert A., ed. Arthur Miller. Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, 1982.---. Eight pieces. New York: Nelson Doubleday, 1981.