QUESTION: Death of a Salesman and The Office

[camille napier bernstein]

I'd like to show a scene or two from The Office to students as we study Death of a Salesman, but I'm no expert on the show.  Anyone think of a scene with Michael Scott where he doesn't get that he is out of touch?  I know, I know, being out of touch is a trope of the show, but he's always saved by some sweet or sentimental event.  I want a scene that extends the discomfort, as Miller's play does.  I still squirm when I read/see Willy Loman begging his boss for a raise...it's relentless.

 

Actually, the British one would work, too -- it felt darker to me i.e. made me more uncomfortable -- to show a salesman who is not aware of mores (social or business) that others around him do see. 

 

Thanks!

Camille

[Tabatha]

The "Diversity Day" episode is a really good example of this.  There's also the episode where Michael talks about "ageism" and it's later in the series.  Diversity Day is, I think, episode 2 or so.

[Melissa L]

YES!! I second diversity day. 

 

I honestly think if you pulled up an episode, you'd find about 5 or 6  examples in each.  Another example is when he gets to speak to the students in the college business class.  It's a very early season - I can't remember the episode, but it's when Ryan is still a temp.