The idea of money as a corrupting influence is a central theme in All My Sons. The attitude of certain characters in the play toward the world is often perverted by their attitude toward money. Write an essay on the following topics:

Part 1) How does Joe Keller's understanding of the human race become corrupted by his desire to make money? Why does he place the pursuit of wealth in such esteem?

Part 2) Compare Ann Deever's response to Chris Keller's promise to make her a fortune to Joe Keller's understanding with his wife. How do they reflect different world views?

Part 3) How does Jim and Sue Bayliss' marriage mirror the relationship between Chris and Joe Keller in regard to their conflict toward the value of money?

Essay Topic 2

Compare and contrast the characters of Steve Deever and Joe Keller. The two are often compared and analyzed by Joe and others. Which is the more dominant in the relationship and how does each's attitude toward the other affect the plot?

Essay Topic 3

Several objects in the play serve the purpose of reminding present characters of characters that are absent. At times they serve this purpose in a destructive way, stymieing the lives of those they touch and other illuminate the reality of life and free characters to move on. Write a three-part essay on the following objects:

Part 1) Larry's tree

Part 2) The hat George wears

Part 3) Larry's letter to Ann

(see the answer keys)

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