American Society During The 1950S Was An Industrial Society

American society during the 1950 s was an industrial society it was a time where the economy was transformingfrom a wartime economy to a consumer economy. The growth in the population lead to a demand and production of American goods [in Europe that] fuel[ed]†¦ the American economy. and allowed for home appliances and vehicles that were only available for [those in] the upper classes to be affordable to those in the middle class. Not only was America an industrial society it was also viewed, at the time, as an egalitarian society. A society where it provides equal access to resources and prestige (sociology dictionary.org) but sadly this was not reflected. People were sold, with the help of the media, on this false belief that†¦show more content†¦The social role that is reflected during the 1950 s as well as in the play is the gender roles within society. Gender roles dictates things such as how a man or a woman should behave, what jobs may be suitable, and what is considered to be masculine and feminine. According to the gender role men are expected to be the head of the family, to work a respectable job, and be able to provide their family with basic as well as material needs. As individuals, we are always adjusting our self-concept since it includes... our self-image... that is subject to constant change... based on...[the] different positions that one holds in society.( Stets Burke 5-7) The characters in the play Death of A Salesman are faced with this issue of trying to fulfill their social role to the best of their abilities. Biff, Willy s son, for example struggles to fit into his father s dream, the American dream, as well as his role as a man in society. BIFF. No, I m mixed up very bad. Maybe I oughta get Married. Maybe I oughta get stuck into something. Maybe that s my trouble. I m like a boy. 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