Willie Loman in Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman is a compelling modern
             tragic hero precisely because he is a common man. Afflicted with the
             American Dream and by emotional and psychological problems related to
             dissatisfaction with life, Loman is a character who most readers or viewers
             can relate to. He maintains a nuclear family, and his relationship with his
             wife and children is typical of a man from his generation. Willie is
             disappointed in his two sons, and wishes that they would surpass his meager
             success. Likewise, Biff and Happy have conflicted feelings toward their
             father. Moreover, Willie's dissatisfaction with his marriage leads him to
             commit adultery. According to Miller, the human problems depicted in Death
             of a Salesman are universal; they apply as much to kings as to common folk.
             Therefore, a play like Death of a Salesman meets the requirements of a
             Death of a Salesman is a tragedy not only because its protagonist
             commits suicide but also because Loman is a tragic hero. Although Willie
             Loman is not an epic hero like Odysseus, his problems are those shared by
             every human being. Therefore, like any tragic hero, Willie Loman possesses
             universal human flaws that lead to his downfall. Willie's mental health
             deteriorates in large part because he fails to enjoy the present moment or
             to appreciate his family for who they are. For example, he refuses to allow
             his sons to express themselves or live their lives as they would prefer.
             Rather, he imposes his values and beliefs on them, even though those values
             and beliefs are faulty and problematic. Willie is blind to the truth and to
             his own responsibility in creating the tragedies around him. Because the
             situations that Willie experiences are common, everyday experiences: low-
             paying jobs and family discord, Miller creates a tragedy that touches the
             Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman shows that tr
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