Assignment Question

Compare and contrast the two plays by writing a point-by-point comparison essay focusing on three similar themes, symbols, or literary devices in both texts.

 Answer

Introduction

Literature has the remarkable ability to reflect and comment on the complexities of human existence. This essay undertakes a point-by-point comparison of two plays, analyzing the shared themes, symbols, and literary devices employed in both texts. The selected plays for this examination are “Hamlet” by William Shakespeare and “Death of a Salesman” by Arthur Miller. While these plays belong to different periods and genres, they share common elements that make them worthy subjects of comparison. This essay will delve into three similar themes, symbols, or literary devices found in both texts, highlighting their significance and how they contribute to the overall narratives .

Comparison of Themes

The theme of family plays a central role in both “Hamlet” and “Death of a Salesman.” In “Hamlet,” the strained relationship between Hamlet and his mother, Queen Gertrude, is a key theme. Hamlet’s disillusionment with his mother’s hasty marriage to his uncle Claudius drives much of the plot’s conflict. Similarly, in “Death of a Salesman,” the dysfunctional family dynamic is evident in Willy Loman’s strained relationships with his wife, Linda, and his sons, Biff and Happy. The theme of family in both plays explores the complexities of filial relationships and the impact of familial conflicts on the characters’ psyches (Shakespeare, 2018; Miller, 2019). Another theme that resonates in both plays is the concept of illusion versus reality. In “Hamlet,” the titular character grapples with the idea of deception and appearances. He feigns madness to uncover the truth about his father’s death and exposes the deceit within the Danish court. Similarly, in “Death of a Salesman,” Willy Loman lives in a world of illusions, convinced that success is determined by popularity and charisma rather than hard work. Both plays explore the consequences of living in a world of delusion and the eventual clash with reality, highlighting the theme’s significance in each narrative (Shakespeare, 2018; Miller, 2019).

The theme of mortality and the human condition is also a shared element in “Hamlet” and “Death of a Salesman.” In “Hamlet,” the play opens with the appearance of a ghost, representing the specter of death and the uncertainty of the afterlife. Hamlet’s contemplation of death and his famous soliloquy, “To be or not to be,” encapsulate the theme’s exploration of human mortality. In “Death of a Salesman,” Willy Loman’s name itself is symbolic, representing the inevitability of death. Willy’s struggles and ultimate demise serve as a commentary on the fragility of human existence and the pursuit of the American Dream. Both plays delve into the existential questions surrounding mortality, providing profound insights into the human condition (Shakespeare, 2018; Miller, 2019).

Comparison of Symbols

The symbol of the “ghost” in “Hamlet” serves as a powerful literary device that mirrors the theme of mortality. The ghost of King Hamlet appears as an apparition, demanding vengeance for his murder. This spectral figure becomes a symbol of the unresolved past, haunting the living and driving the play’s action. In “Death of a Salesman,” the “Willy’s car” serves as a symbol of both Willy’s aspirations and his failures. Willy sees his car as a representation of success and freedom, but it also becomes the instrument of his tragic demise. The car’s symbolism in both plays reflects the characters’ desires and the tragic consequences of their pursuits (Shakespeare, 2018; Miller, 2019). The “mirror” is another symbol that connects both plays. In “Hamlet,” Hamlet’s famous soliloquy reveals his introspection as he contemplates his own reflection. The mirror represents self-examination and the struggle to understand one’s true nature. In “Death of a Salesman,” mirrors are used symbolically in Willy’s house, reflecting his obsession with appearances and his inability to see himself clearly. The mirror as a symbol underscores the theme of illusion versus reality in both plays, emphasizing the characters’ internal conflicts (Shakespeare, 2018; Miller, 2019).

Comparison of Literary Devices

The use of soliloquy as a literary device is prevalent in both “Hamlet” and “Death of a Salesman.” In “Hamlet,” Hamlet’s soliloquies provide insight into his inner turmoil and contemplative nature. The most famous of these soliloquies, “To be or not to be,” showcases Hamlet’s existential crisis. In “Death of a Salesman,” Willy Loman’s monologues serve a similar purpose, revealing his inner thoughts and delusions. The use of soliloquy in both plays allows the audience to access the characters’ inner worlds and adds depth to their characterization (Shakespeare, 2018; Miller, 2019). Irony is another literary device employed in both plays to convey layers of meaning. In “Hamlet,” dramatic irony is evident when Hamlet pretends to be mad to uncover the truth, while the audience knows he is acting. In “Death of a Salesman,” situational irony is prevalent, as Willy’s pursuit of the American Dream leads to his downfall. The use of irony in both plays adds complexity to the narratives and underscores the themes of deception and disillusionment (Shakespeare, 2018; Miller, 2019).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the comparison of “Hamlet” by William Shakespeare and “Death of a Salesman” by Arthur Miller reveals significant similarities in themes, symbols, and literary devices. Both plays delve into themes of family, illusion versus reality, and mortality and the human condition. Symbols such as the ghost and the mirror are used to convey deeper meaning in the narratives. Literary devices such as soliloquy and irony provide insight into the characters’ inner worlds and add complexity to the stories. Despite the differences in time periods and settings, these two plays resonate with audiences because of their exploration of universal themes and the skillful use of literary elements .

References

Miller, A. (2019). Death of a Salesman. Penguin Books.

Shakespeare, W. (2018). Hamlet. Simon & Schuster.

Frequently Ask Questions ( FQA)

Q1: What are the two plays compared in the essay, and who are their respective authors?

A1: The two plays compared in the essay are “Hamlet” by William Shakespeare and “Death of a Salesman” by Arthur Miller.

Q2: What are the three common themes explored in both “Hamlet” and “Death of a Salesman”?

A2: The three common themes explored in both plays are family, illusion versus reality, and mortality and the human condition.

Q3: Can you provide an example of a shared symbol in these plays?

A3: One shared symbol in both plays is the “mirror,” which is used to convey the theme of illusion versus reality.

Q4: What literary device is used to reveal the inner thoughts of the characters in both plays? A4: Soliloquy is a literary device used to reveal the inner thoughts of the characters in both “Hamlet” and “Death of a Salesman.”

Q5: How do the themes and literary devices in these plays contribute to their overall narratives?

A5: The themes and literary devices in both plays contribute to their overall narratives by adding depth to the characters, enhancing the plot’s complexity, and providing profound insights into the human condition.

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