FREE IGNOU BEGC-105 SOLVED ASSIGNMENT 2022-23
2. The Major Theme of All My Sons
Arthur Miller’s play “All My Sons” delves into the theme of moral responsibility, particularly focusing on how individuals grapple with their past actions and the consequences they bear. The play centers on the Keller family, particularly Joe Keller, a businessman who knowingly supplied defective airplane parts to the military during World War II, resulting in the deaths of twenty-one pilots. The central theme emerges from the complex interactions between characters and their attempts to navigate the ethical dilemmas posed by the past.
The play’s title itself encapsulates the theme. “All My Sons” highlights the interconnectedness of families and the idea that the consequences of one’s actions reverberate through generations. Joe Keller’s actions, driven by a desire for financial success, not only lead to the loss of innocent lives but also fracture his own family’s integrity. His son Chris Keller, who returns from the war, is profoundly affected by his father’s choices and struggles to reconcile his love for his father with his moral outrage.
The theme of moral responsibility is further explored through the character of Ann Deever, who was once engaged to Chris’s brother Larry, a pilot who died in the war. Ann’s presence rekindles painful memories and unveils hidden truths about Larry’s fate, as well as Joe’s culpability in the tragedy. This revelation forces characters to confront their complicity or ignorance in the events that unfolded.
The play’s setting, post-World War II America, is crucial to the theme. The war serves as a backdrop that magnifies the importance of individual choices and accountability. In a society grappling with the horrors of the war, the moral fabric of individuals is put to the test. The play thus becomes a microcosm of the broader ethical challenges faced by a nation emerging from the war’s devastation.
The conflict between personal desires and social responsibility drives the characters’ actions and decisions. Joe Keller’s refusal to accept blame stems from his desire to provide for his family, a sentiment understandable to some degree. This internal struggle makes him a complex character, reflecting the tension between self-preservation and moral integrity. Chris Keller, on the other hand, represents the younger generation’s aspirations for a better world, built on transparency and ethical values.
In conclusion, “All My Sons” revolves around the theme of moral responsibility, exploring how individuals deal with the consequences of their actions and the ethical dilemmas arising from those actions. The play highlights the interconnectedness of families, the impact of past choices on present lives, and the tension between personal desires and social accountability. Miller’s exploration of these themes invites audiences to reflect on their own values and choices, making “All My Sons” a timeless piece of literature that continues to resonate with audiences.
