Embodiment of the American Dream in "The Great Gatsby" and "Death of a Salesman"

We all have goals and dreams we want to accomplish. But the pursuit of a dream based on false illusions will ultimately lead to tragedy. This is true in Arthur Miller's play, "Death of a Salesman", and in F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, "The Great Gatsby". In both works, the main character is in pursuit of a dream for success that ultimately causes his demise.
The American Dream is the idea that through hard work, courage, and determination one can achieve prosperity. Based on the Protestant work ethic, these values were held by the European settlers and passed on to subsequent generations.…