All My Sons

Definition

All My Sons is a play written by Arthur Miller in 1947 that explores themes of family, responsibility, and the moral implications of one’s actions. The story revolves around the Keller family, particularly focusing on Joe Keller, who is confronted with the consequences of his decisions during World War II, especially regarding the manufacturing of faulty airplane parts that led to the deaths of soldiers, including his son. This work is significant as it critiques the American Dream and raises questions about accountability in a post-war society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The play debuted on Broadway in 1947 and received critical acclaim, winning the Tony Award for Best Author.
2. All My Sons addresses the moral dilemmas faced by individuals during wartime, particularly focusing on the conflict between personal gain and societal responsibility.
3. Joe Keller's character embodies the tension between achieving success and the ethical repercussions of one's actions, especially in relation to his son's death.
4. The play is set in the immediate aftermath of World War II, reflecting the disillusionment many felt about the American Dream as a result of wartime realities.
5. The title 'All My Sons' symbolizes Joe Keller's guilt and responsibility not just for his biological son but also for all the young men who died because of his choices.

Review Questions

• How does Arthur Miller portray the theme of responsibility in All My Sons?
  • In All My Sons, Arthur Miller portrays responsibility through Joe Keller’s character, who grapples with his role in producing defective airplane parts that led to his son Chris's death and the deaths of other soldiers. The play emphasizes that personal responsibility extends beyond one's immediate family to society as a whole. Through Joe's eventual realization and confrontation with his actions, Miller illustrates the heavy burden of guilt that comes with failing to consider the broader consequences of one's decisions.
• Analyze how All My Sons critiques the concept of the American Dream.
  • All My Sons critiques the American Dream by illustrating how Joe Keller's pursuit of success leads to moral compromise and tragic consequences. The play highlights the dark side of ambition, showing that the desire for wealth and success can result in ethical lapses. Joe's initial belief that financial success is synonymous with a good life unravels as he faces the repercussions of his actions, suggesting that true fulfillment cannot be achieved at the expense of others’ lives.
• Evaluate the significance of family dynamics in All My Sons and their impact on the characters’ decisions.
  • In All My Sons, family dynamics are central to understanding character motivations and decisions. The relationship between Joe Keller and his sons reveals deep-seated conflicts regarding loyalty, guilt, and legacy. Chris’s idealism clashes with Joe’s pragmatic view of success, creating tension that drives the narrative forward. Ultimately, these dynamics highlight how familial bonds can both support and destroy individuals, illustrating Miller's argument that one's actions have far-reaching effects on both family members and society.

Related terms

Arthur Miller:

An influential American playwright known for works that tackle social issues and moral dilemmas, including Death of a Salesman and The Crucible.

American Dream:

A national ethos of the United States that promotes the idea that prosperity is achievable through hard work and determination.

Post-war America: The period following World War II characterized by economic growth, social change, and shifting cultural values in American society.