Abstract:Arthur Miller is considered to be one of the most distinguished contemporary American playwrights. Death of a Salesman received an immediate success after its premiere in 1949. It brought Miller the Pulitzer Prize for Drama as well as the New York Drama Critics Circle Award and the Antoinette Perry (Tony) Award. Death of a Salesman tells the story of an ordinary salesman Willy Loman who was intoxicated with American dream and lost his life for it. 

Based on Freud’s theory on narcissism, this thesis intends to analyze the narcissistic personality of the protagonist Willy and explore its influences on his life and career. Willy’s narcissistic personality is revealed in his world of fantasy, his self-importance and sense of superiority, his strong jealousy and cruel nature, which lead to his failure both as a salesman and as a father. 

Key words: Narcissistic personality  Willy Loman  American dream   salesman  father 

Contents

Abstract

摘要

Chapter One Introduction-1

1.1 Introduction to Arthur Miller-1

1.2 Introduction to Death of a Salesman-1

1.3 Structure of the Thesis-3

Chapter Two Narcissism-4

2.1 Theory of Narcissism-4

2.2 The Characteristics of Narcissistic Personality-5

Chapter Three Manifestation of Willy’s Narcissistic Personality-6

3.1 Willy’s World of Fantasy-6

3.2 Willy’s Self-Importance and Sense of Superiority-7

3.3 Willy’s Strong Jealousy and Cruel Nature-8

Chapter Four Consequences of Willy’s Narcissistic Personality-10

4.1 Failure as a Salesman-10

4.2 Failure as a Father-11

Chapter Five Conclusion-13

References-14