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Death of a Salesman Archetypes

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Death of a Salesman Archetypes
Archetype
Death of a Sales Man
SITUATIONAL ARCHETYPES
The Journey - Willy must go and discover job opportunities to restore fertility into his house hold, he also descends into a mental, the flashbacks, and real hell, being fired, in order to discover his faults.
The Fall - Willy was once a very successful salesman, his children looked up to him and even had a woman on the side. Just like any hero, Willy is soon "expelled" from his paradise, such as being fired.
Unhealable Wound - Willy's ability to hallucinate is something that can not be healed and in the end is the reason why Willy ends his life.

SYMBOLIC ARCHETYPES

Innate Wisdom Vs Educated Stupidity - Neither Biff nor Willy can realize their goals until they become street smart and realize their lessons.

CHARACTER ARCHETYPES

Mentor Pupil Relationship - Biff looks up at Willy as a mentor, as well as his father, Willy also tries to teach Biff important lessons.
Hunting Group of Companions - Biff and Happy are willing to come together and tackle money issues for their father.
Loyal Retainers - Willy's children Biff and Happy could be considered his "side kicks" due to their actions in the flash backs.
The Outcast - Biff could be seen as the outcast, after he failed math and could never get a job, whence going from job to job, place to place.
Creature of Nightmare - Ben could be considered a creature of nightmare due to he is the reason Willy ends his life, all though his head.
Woman Figure
Earthmother - She holds Willy up emotionally, cares for him and looks out for him, does not want to "embarrass" her husband.
The Temptress - Willy's affair causes the downfall of Biff's life, and also throws Willy off of his pedestal, causing most future problems to accrue.
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