Table of contentsThe pursuit of successThe illusion of happinessThe disintegration of the Loman familyConclusionBibliographyIn Arthur Miller's play "Death of a Salesman", the symbol of bottom appears several times throughout the text, representing various themes and ideas. These stockings, belonging to Willy Loman's mistress, serve as a metaphor for both deception and desire, highlighting the destructive nature of Willy's pursuit of the American dream. Through an analysis of the symbolism of the stockings, this essay will explore how they contribute to the overall themes of the play, including the pursuit of success, the illusion of happiness, and the disintegration of the Loman family.Say No to Plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The Pursuit of Success The stockings of "Death of a Salesman" symbolize Willy's relentless quest for success and wealth. From the beginning of the play, Willy is portrayed as a man who wholeheartedly believes in the American Dream, the idea that hard work and dedication will lead to success and prosperity. He views stockings as a representation of material wealth which he believes will bring him happiness and fulfillment. An example of this can be seen when Willy gives his wife, Linda, stockings as a gift. He hopes these stockings will remind him of his success as a salesman and, by extension, his ability to provide for his family. However, this gesture is ultimately deceptive, since Willy obtained the stockings through his affair with another woman. The stockings therefore become a symbol of the lies and deception that Willy engages in to maintain the illusion of success. Additionally, the stockings also symbolize Willy's desperation to achieve the same level of success as his older brother, Ben. Willy idolizes Ben and considers him the embodiment of the American dream. When Ben shows Willy a diamond watch, he mentions that he could have bought it in Africa for "a hundred and twenty dollars." This comment prompts Willy to ask, "How can they whip cheese?" His desire to understand how Ben achieved such wealth and success drives him to pursue the same path, symbolized by the stockings. The Illusion of Happiness Additionally, the stockings in “Death of a Salesman” represent the illusion of happiness that Willy desperately clings to. Despite his extramarital affair and career failure, Willy believes that acquiring material goods, such as stockings, will bring him the happiness he desires. Willy's belief in the power of material goods is illustrated in his conversations with his sons, Biff and Happy. He repeatedly tells them that "the man who comes into the business world... must be appreciated." Willy's emphasis on being liked and looking good reflects his belief that success and happiness are achieved through external validation and the acquisition of material wealth. However, as the play progresses, it becomes clear that the pursuit of happiness through material means is ultimately futile. . Despite his efforts, he is unable to achieve the level of success he desires and his obsession with material goods only further isolates him from his family. Stockings therefore symbolize the emptiness and disillusionment that results from pursuing a superficial definition of happiness. The Disintegration of the Loman Family The stockings of "Death of a Salesman" also serve as a metaphor for the disintegration of the Loman family. Willy's affair and his gift of stockings to Linda not only symbolize his deception but also highlight the breakdown of trust within the family. When Biff discovers the stockings, he becomes aware of his father's infidelity and., 1998.