Bernard's Rise to Success

Follows Bernard's transformation from a nerdy, worried boy to a successful lawyer arguing before the Supreme Court, a foil to the Loman brothers.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Studious Boy

The Earnest Neighbor Bernard's Worry As a boy, Bernard is serious and responsible. He tries to get Biff to study for the Regents exam, warning him that he will flunk math. He is loyal to Biff, even when Biff takes advantage of him. Willy's Dismissal Willy dismisses Bernard as anemic and not well-liked. He tells Biff that being well-liked is more important than grades. Bernard's intelligence is undervalued by the Loman family. The Loyal Friend Despite the mockery, Bernard continues to help Biff. He carries his shoulder guards to the big game and remains in his orbit. His affection for Biff is genuine.

The Successful Lawyer

A Transformative Encounter Bernard in Charley's Office Willy encounters Bernard, now a mature, confident man. Bernard is on his way to Washington to argue a case before the Supreme Court. He carries tennis rackets, suggesting a life of leisure and success. Willy's Bafflement Willy cannot understand how Bernard succeeded while Biff failed. He asks Bernard for the secret, revealing his confusion about the values he taught his sons. Bernard's success is a living refutation of Willy's beliefs. The Important Question Bernard asks Willy what happened in Boston, knowing that Biff's life changed after that trip. Willy evades the question, but it haunts him. Bernard's insight suggests that the key to Biff's downfall lies in that moment.

Past, when Biff was in high school

Present day, afternoon