Character Analysis in Arthur Miller’s ‘All My Sons’: Chris, Kate, Ann, and Larry
Chris: The Young Generation
Chris, a young and idealistic soldier, represents the younger generation in Arthur Miller’s ‘All My Sons.’ He embodies the noble values of solidarity and responsibility, which he learned during his war experiences. Chris is ashamed of his father’s greed and hypocrisy, and he struggles to reconcile his love for him with his social conscience.
Kate: The Old Generation
Kate, Chris’s mother, represents the older generation who remained in the United States during the war. She is a symbol of the mothers who struggled with bereavement and superstition, trying to avoid the reality of their sons’ deaths. Despite her perceived weakness, Kate ultimately provides consolation to Chris, showing her inner strength.
Ann: The Women Left Behind
Ann represents the women who stayed in America while their husbands went to war. She is lonely, desperate, and lost, leading her to become selfish. Ann’s character highlights the sacrifices made by those who remained at home during wartime.
Larry: The Altruistic Soldier
Larry, a young pilot who committed suicide, is a symbol of altruism and shame. He is ashamed of his father’s actions and feels a sense of responsibility for the deaths of his fellow soldiers.
Themes Explored in ‘All My Sons’
American Dream
Miller critiques the dark side of the American Dream, where success is often achieved through corruption and at the expense of others. Chris’s father, Keller, exemplifies this failure, having made his fortune through war profiteering.
Relatedness
The play explores the theme of relatedness, as Chris struggles to understand his father’s selfishness and lack of social perspective.
Greed: War Profiteering
Keller’s greed and war profiteering are central to the play’s themes. Miller denounces the corruption that can arise from the pursuit of wealth.
Social Responsibility vs. Self Interests
The play contrasts the importance of social responsibility with the pursuit of self-interests. Chris represents the former, while his father represents the latter.
Love
Love is explored in various forms, including romantic love (Chris and Ann), parent-child love, and the brotherhood of soldiers.
Death
Death is a prevalent theme, with the play featuring murder, suicide, and bereavement. It highlights the tragic consequences of war and the struggles of those left behind.
Guilt
Guilt is a significant theme, with characters such as Chris, Keller, and Kate grappling with their own culpability in the events that unfold.