This study presents a stylistic analysis of language and gender in Arthur Miller's iconic play, Death of a Salesman, utilizing conversation analysis and politeness theory as analytical frameworks. The objective of this study is to examine the linguistic patterns portrayed in the interactions between characters, specifically focusing on the influence of gender on language use and sociolinguistic behavior. By examining dialogue segments from the play, this paper explores the ways in which gender differences manifest in language as well as the strategies characters employ to maintain and manage politeness. Through a close examination of the text, this study traces the linguistic patterns and stylistic choices associated with male and female characters, uncovering underlying power dynamics and social hierarchies. It investigates the extent to which gender influences language use, highlighting linguistic and conversational strategies employed by the characters, such as interruptions, turn-taking, hedging, and indirectness. Additionally, this paper situates the findings within the broader socio-cultural context of the time period in which the play was written. By doing so, it reveals the impact of societal norms and expectations on characters' language use, providing insight into the representation of gender roles and power relations depicted in the play. The results of the study contribute to the growing body of literature on language and gender in literary works, emphasizing the significance of linguistic analysis in understanding the complex portrayal of gender dynamics. Furthermore, this study underscores the relevance of conversation analysis and politeness theory as effective frameworks for investigating language use in dramatic texts, offering a deeper understanding of the ways in which language and gender intersect.
