1. What does Jim mean by "these private little revolutions always die"? What does it suggest about his impression of Chris’ reaction in Act 2?
This is a highly timely and important revelation, as Jim's understanding of Keller's position and his own revelation about how he has been similarly involved in acts of compromise underscore the theme of moral compromise due to monetary greed. Keller is not alone in the world having done what he has done, as the character of Jim Bayliss makes perfectly clear. By saying that, Jim as much of a realist as his wife Sue, does not believe that anybody, referring to Chris, can stay idealistic in the modern world.
2. How does Arthur Miller create suspense around the revelation of the letter?
Once Ann states "There's something I want to tell you. [She starts, then halts.]", the audience gets an idea that Ann has something important to announce. She reveals that "his engine didn't fail him. But he died. I know...". From this point onwards Miller decides to not reveal right away what it is that Ann knows regarding Larry's death which creates suspense and instead makes her character say excuses to Kate about how much she loved Larry, and she would not have looked at another man if she knew Larry was coming back. Body movement also creates suspense around the revelation of the letter as Kate "[Snatches letter from ANN'S hand.]" implying that there is something important written in it. Then another feature creating suspense is Kate's reaction once reading the letter ("Oh, my God...", "My God, my God...").
3. What, according to Chris, has a man got to be? How does this differ from Keller’s philosophy? Connect this to a theme of your choosing.
Miller describes Chris as "thirty-two; like his father, solidly built, a listener. A man capable of immense affection and loyalty". To Chris a true man has be loyal to his country and people in his life and compassionate to others as well as take responsibility for his actions. This differs from Keller's philosophy as according to Keller a true man should put his family first. Around this philosophy Keller based his decision regarding selling defected airplane parts which only ended up killing warriors, "my boys" as Chris said which is why it is contradicting Chris' point of view.
4. Can a man be a “Jesus in this world”? Answer this in relation to the wider play and your personal understanding of what is meant by this repeated statement.
A man can't be a Jesus in this world as everyone makes mistakes.
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