Importance of Bernard in Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman

In Arthur Miller's play Death of a Salesman, the character of Bernard plays a crucial role in highlighting the themes of the American Dream, success, and the consequences of Willy Loman's flawed perception of these ideals. Through his contrasting character traits, interactions with the Loman family, and his eventual success, Bernard serves as a catalyst for the audience's understanding of the tragic downfall of Willy Loman. This essay will explore the significance of Bernard's character in the play and how he contributes to the overall narrative. By analyzing his interactions with the Lomans and the implications of his success, it becomes evident that Bernard serves as a symbol of the true nature of success and a reflection of the consequences of Willy's misguided pursuit of the American Dream.

Bernard's character is established early on in the play as being the complete opposite of Willy Loman's sons, Biff and Happy. While Biff and Happy are portrayed as charismatic and popular, Bernard is depicted as studious, introverted, and diligent. This contrast in character traits serves to emphasize the importance of hard work and dedication in achieving success, rather than relying solely on charm and charisma.

Throughout the play, Bernard's success is repeatedly highlighted by Miller as he becomes a successful lawyer. This success is a direct result of his dedication to his studies and his commitment to hard work. In contrast, Biff and Happy, who possess the charm and charisma that Willy values so highly, fail to achieve the success they desire.

By showcasing the success of Bernard and the failures of Biff and Happy, Miller emphasizes the importance of substance over style, highlighting the flaws in Willy's perception of success. The character of Bernard serves as a constant reminder that true success is achieved through hard work and dedication, rather than relying solely on superficial qualities.

Bernard's interactions with the Loman family also contribute to the understanding of Willy's flawed perception of success. Throughout the play, Bernard serves as a contrast to Willy's unrealistic expectations and delusions of grandeur. While Willy constantly boasts about Biff's sporting achievements and future success, it is Bernard who consistently warns Willy about the consequences of Biff's failed math class.

Despite Willy's dismissal of Bernard's concerns, Bernard's prediction comes true when Biff fails to graduate and is unable to secure a successful career. This interaction serves as a pivotal moment in the play, as it highlights the consequences of Willy's misguided perception of success and his inability to see the reality of his sons' potential.

Furthermore, Bernard's interactions with Willy's sons throughout the play demonstrate the stark contrast in their attitudes towards success. While Biff and Happy are focused on their popularity and the superficial aspects of success, Bernard remains committed to his studies and dedicated to achieving his goals. This contrast serves as a reflection of Willy's misguided values and highlights the consequences of prioritizing superficial qualities over hard work and dedication.

Bernard's eventual success as a lawyer serves as a stark contrast to the tragic downfall of Willy Loman. While Willy's misguided pursuit of the American Dream leads to his eventual demise, Bernard's success highlights the true nature of achieving success in society. Bernard's success is a direct result of his dedication, hard work, and ability to adapt to the changing realities of the American Dream.

Through Bernard's success, Miller conveys the message that the American Dream is not solely dependent on popularity and charm, but rather on hard work, resilience, and adaptability. Bernard's character serves as a reminder that success is not guaranteed, and that it requires constant effort and dedication.

In conclusion, Bernard's character in Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman plays a significant role in highlighting the themes of the American Dream, success, and the consequences of Willy Loman's flawed perception of these ideals. Through his contrasting character traits, interactions with the Loman family, and his eventual success, Bernard serves as a symbol of the true nature of success and a reflection of the consequences of Willy's misguided pursuit of the American Dream. The character of Bernard serves as a constant reminder that true success is achieved through hard work and dedication, rather than relying solely on superficial qualities. By contrasting Bernard's success with the tragic downfall of Willy, Miller emphasizes the importance of realistic expectations and the consequences of delusions of grandeur. This play serves as a cautionary tale, urging the audience to reevaluate their own perceptions of success and the American Dream.

In Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman, the character of Bernard serves as a crucial element in highlighting the themes of success, the American Dream, and the consequences of Willy Loman's flawed perception of these ideals. Through his contrasting character traits, interactions with the Loman family, and eventual success, Bernard serves as a symbol of the true nature of success and a reflection of the consequences of Willy's misguided pursuit of the American Dream. By analyzing Bernard's character and his role in the play, it becomes evident that his importance lies in his ability to challenge Willy's flawed perception of success and serve as a catalyst for the audience's understanding of the tragic downfall of Willy Loman. This play serves as a reminder that true success is achieved through hard work and dedication, rather than relying solely on superficial qualities, and urges the audience to reevaluate their own perceptions of success and the American Dream.