who finds the rubber hose in death of a salesman

The Mysterious Discovery: Who Finds the Rubber Hose in "Death of a Salesman"

Arthur Miller’s iconic play, "Death of a Salesman," has left audiences captivated and intrigued for decades. Filled with dramatic dialogue, complex characters, and profound themes, this theatrical masterpiece continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. One of the most significant moments in the play is the discovery of a rubber hose, which serves as a symbol of hidden secrets and desperation. In this article, we delve into the mysterious nature of this discovery, exploring the who, what, and why, behind the finding of the rubber hose.

I. Uncovering the Symbol

II. The Context of the Discovery

III. The Discoverer - Biff Loman

IV. Willy Loman – The Man Behind the Hose

V. The Hose's Significance

VI. The Revelation of Secrets

VII. The Desperation of a Broken Dream

VIII. The Rubber Hose as a Vehicle for Self-Deception

IX. The Tragic Ending: The Hose's Final Role

X. The Legacy of the Rubber Hose

I. Uncovering the Symbol

"Death of a Salesman" is a play rich in symbolism, with the rubber hose being a particularly powerful one. Initially introduced as a seemingly ordinary household item, the rubber hose gradually reveals its deeper meaning as the narrative unfolds. Its existence within the Loman household symbolizes the destructive force of lies, suppressed emotions, and self-deception.

II. The Context of the Discovery

The discovery of the rubber hose takes place in the Loman family's home, amidst a series of chaotic events. This broken, dilapidated house serves as a metaphor for the shattered American Dream and the dysfunctional relationships within the Loman family. As the play progresses, tension mounts, leading to the shocking discovery of the rubber hose.

III. The Discoverer - Biff Loman

It is Biff, Willy Loman's eldest son, who stumbles upon the rubber hose, unearthing a cataclysmic truth that alters the course of the play. Biff, previously an admired high school football star, represents hope and promise that slowly diminished with time. The discovery of the rubber hose becomes a pivotal moment in Biff's journey towards self-discovery and forgiveness.

IV. Willy Loman – The Man Behind the Hose

Willy Loman, the central character of the play, is a tragic figure consumed by delusions of success and grandeur. As the story unravels, we understand that the rubber hose belongs to Willy, exposing his darkest secrets. Willy's desperation to leave behind a legacy and provide for his family becomes evident through the rubber hose, as it represents the hollowness of his dreams.

V. The Hose's Significance

The rubber hose serves a multi-dimensional purpose in "Death of a Salesman." Firstly, it symbolizes Willy's affair with a woman while he was on the road as a traveling salesman. Secondly, it represents the feeling of suffocation and entrapment within the Loman household, both physically and emotionally. Lastly, it serves as a tool for Willy's eventual self-destruction.

VI. The Revelation of Secrets

The discovery of the rubber hose brings the truth to light, unraveling Willy's carefully constructed web of lies. The hose acts as evidence, exposing Willy's infidelity and betrayal of his wife, Linda. As the truth is revealed, the dynamics within the Loman family reach a breaking point, leading to a profound shift in their relationships.

VII. The Desperation of a Broken Dream

The rubber hose embodies the desperation and anguish of a man whose dreams of success and prosperity have crumbled. Willy's relentless pursuit of the American Dream leaves him emotionally and financially drained, resulting in his mental deterioration. The discovery of the hose signifies the devastating consequences of Willy's lifelong pursuit of an unattainable ideal.

VIII. The Rubber Hose as a Vehicle for Self-Deception

Throughout the play, the rubber hose reflects the characters' inclination to deceive themselves and others. Willy's affair is a hidden secret—a symbol of the countless lies he tells himself and his family. Linda, Willy's wife, is aware of the hose's significance but chooses to overlook it, representing her desperate attempt to maintain the illusion of a perfect family.

IX. The Tragic Ending: The Hose's Final Role

As "Death of a Salesman" reaches its climax, the rubber hose becomes an instrument of tragedy. Willy, overwhelmed by his failed dreams and the disillusionment he faces, sees the hose as a way to provide for his family through his life insurance policy. In his mind, his death will be the ultimate sacrifice, securing his family's future.

X. The Legacy of the Rubber Hose

The symbolic power of the rubber hose continues beyond the play's final moments. It serves as a reminder of the destructive consequences of pursuing the American Dream without consideration for one's true happiness. Miller's "Death of a Salesman" teaches us the importance of self-reflection and the dangers that lie in denying one's true values and desires.

In conclusion, the mysterious discovery of the rubber hose in "Death of a Salesman" is a turning point that unearths the hidden truths within the Loman family. This symbol, representing secrets, desperation, and self-deception, amplifies the play's themes while leaving a lasting impact on audiences. Arthur Miller's masterful creation continues to provoke introspection, urging us to question the constructs of success, happiness, and the price we pay when we lose sight of our true selves.