
He now considers his father to be a “fake” and he no longer abides by or believes in Loman’s grandiose fantasies of splendor and success. Upon learning that his father is having an affair, Biff denounces willy and all his philosophies. Later on, Biff’s perception of Willy is radically altered after the trip to Boston. A Critique of Biff Loman and American Dream

For instance, instead of punishing Biff for cheating during the football match, he instead praises his actions.

He once went to jail for three months for stealing a suit. Therefore, Biff grew up knowing that he was never bound to any societal expectations or rules because willy did not care to live by them, nor did he expect Biff to do the same.Īs a reason, it did not come as a surprise that Biff’s behavior of stealing proceeded through his adult life because Loman encourages these seemingly “small thefts” while he was growing up.

He believed in all his narratives and bought into his father’s worldview that an individual will surely be successful if he gains the favor of the people or being “well-liked.” For this reason, Biff never questioned Loman even when it was obvious that he was underhanded or corrupt. In particular, he is also a stimulator of his flashbacks throughout the play.Īny time Loman is not able to come to terms with reality, he takes refuge into his rather glorious past where Biff remains a constant figure.īefore the Boston trip, Biff held willy in high esteem.
#Biff loman actor drivers
He is one of the primary drivers of willy’s thoughts as well as actions. He is a controversial character in the play who goes against the grain when it comes to his family’s vision.
