Death of a Salesman - Tragedy and Social Issues
English
Grade 7
10 questions
~20 mins
1 views0 downloads
About This Worksheet
A worksheet focusing on the themes of tragedy and social issues in Arthur Miller's 'Death of a Salesman'. It includes a detailed scene summary and context guide, along with questions that encourage analysis and creative thinking tailored for Grade 7 students.
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Death of a Salesman - Tragedy and Social Issues
Subject: EnglishGrade: Grade 7
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Untitled Worksheet
Grade Grade 7
A
Scene Summary and Context
In Arthur Miller's 'Death of a Salesman,' the story centers around Willy Loman, a struggling salesman who is haunted by his past and his ideals about success. The play explores themes of hope, failure, and social pressure, highlighting the social issues faced by many Americans during the post-war era. Willy's interactions with his family reveal the pressures to achieve material success and the toll it takes on personal relationships. The scene captures Willy's internal conflict as he grapples with his dreams versus reality, illustrating the tragedy of unfulfilled ambitions. Key phrases such as 'the American Dream' and 'failure' symbolize the societal expectations and personal despair that drive the characters' actions and decisions. This context encourages reflection on how social issues like economic hardship and societal expectations influence individual lives and tragic outcomes.
1.
Identify the key social issues depicted in this scene summary.
[2 marks]2.
Why does Willy's internal conflict make this scene a tragedy?
[3 marks]3.
What does the phrase 'the American Dream' symbolize in this context?
[2 marks]B
Analysis of Literary Techniques
Willy's voice falters as he reflects, 'No matter what, I can't seem to get ahead.' The stage directions describe his trembling hand and distant gaze. These physical cues and the repetition of 'can't' emphasize his despair and the cyclical nature of his struggles. Miller uses this internal monologue to show Willy's internal conflict, symbolizing the broader societal pressures that trap individuals in a pursuit of unattainable success.
1.
Identify and explain the use of at least two literary techniques in this excerpt.
[4 marks]2.
How does Miller’s use of stage directions enhance the theme of tragedy?
[3 marks]C
Creative Writing Task: Personal Reflection
Write a short essay (15-20 lines) reflecting on how social expectations have affected your life or that of someone you know. Use specific examples and describe feelings involved.
1.
Your personal reflection: Describe a time when social expectations impacted you or someone you know.
[10 marks]D
Discussion on Social Issues
Answer the following questions about social issues portrayed in 'Death of a Salesman'.
1.
In your opinion, how do societal expectations today compare with those depicted in the play?
[3 marks]2.
Discuss ways society can support individuals facing pressure to conform to social expectations.
[5 marks]E
Theme Exploration: The Tragedy of Unfulfilled Dreams
Analyze how Miller presents the theme of unfulfilled dreams and its connection to tragedy. Use examples from the play’s language or characters.
1.
Describe how Willy’s dreams contribute to the play’s tragic outcome.
[4 marks]2.
Identify a literary technique Miller uses to highlight the theme of unfulfilled dreams.
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Details
- Created
- 12/31/2025
- Updated
- 12/31/2025
- Type
- worksheet