1. CHARACTERISATION

2. Objectives: explore the interactions between characters
respond to the tone of different characters in the dialogue
explore the dilemmas and problems experienced by the characters within the play

3. Recap Homework: The Loman Family p.2-8
What family problems does Miller hint at in the opening pages?
What is the main source of the tension in the family?
How would you describe the relationship between:
Linda & Willy
Willy and Biff
Biff & Happy

4. Happy & Biff (p.8) Read the Stage Directions on p.8
Rather than focus on physical description, other than ‘well-built’ and ‘tall’, Miller describes the characteristics of Biff and Happy. How does he describe each character?
What is the effect of this? Think about the tone that is established.

5. Happy & Biff P.8—15
Read the conversation between Biff and Happy. Using highlighters, underline in one colour any references to their dreams and ambitions and in another colour any references to their unhappiness and frustration.
What do they do for a living?
How would you describe Happy’s relationship with women?
How would you describe the relationship between Biff and Happy?

6. ‘I’m mixed up very bad’
Make a chart with two columns; one for Biff and one for Happy. List quotations that show they are unhappy with their current lives.
What criticisms of Capitalism can you find in these pages?
In what ways does the play already seem to be established as a tragedy?

7. Homework:
Read p.15—26 and answer the questions in your English book.