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are flawed. Joe’s legacy as a devoted family man, despite his mistakes, highlights the
powerful bond between a father, a husband, and the family he loves.
(ii) How is the title of All My Sons justified?
Ans: The title of Arthur Miller's play "All My Sons" is deeply meaningful and is directly
connected to the main themes and events of the story. To understand how the title is
justified, it is important to delve into the plot, the characters, and the moral dilemmas they
face. The title reflects the central conflicts, responsibilities, and tragic consequences of the
actions of the characters, particularly Joe Keller, the father figure in the play.
Overview of the Play
"All My Sons" is a play that revolves around the Keller family—Joe Keller, his wife Kate, and
their son Chris. The story is set in the aftermath of World War II and explores themes like
family, guilt, responsibility, and the consequences of one's actions. Joe Keller is a successful
businessman who owns a factory that produced airplane parts during the war. However, it is
revealed that Joe had knowingly shipped defective airplane parts that caused the death of
21 pilots. Joe's actions were motivated by his desire to keep his business running and secure
his family’s future, but they ultimately have disastrous consequences.
The play also explores the family's relationship with their deceased son, Larry, who was a
pilot during the war. Kate Keller refuses to believe that Larry is dead, while Chris, their other
son, is trying to move on and marry Larry's former fiancée, Ann. As the story unfolds, secrets
are revealed, leading to a tragic ending.
Justification of the Title "All My Sons"
1. Joe Keller’s Sense of Responsibility: The title "All My Sons" is a reflection of Joe
Keller’s realization towards the end of the play that he had a broader responsibility
beyond his immediate family. Joe originally justified his actions by claiming that
everything he did was for the sake of his family, especially his sons. He believed that
his responsibility was to ensure his business’s success and to provide for his family,
even if it meant compromising his integrity.
However, Joe's actions didn't just affect his family—they had a much larger impact. The
faulty airplane parts he allowed to be shipped caused the deaths of 21 young pilots, who
were also someone’s sons. Joe’s eventual realization that these pilots were like his own
children gives the title its full meaning. He recognizes that his duty was not only to his own
son, but to all the young men who fought in the war. This realization is captured in the line:
"They were all my sons."
2. The Concept of Collective Responsibility: The title also reflects the broader theme of
collective responsibility. Joe Keller’s actions had far-reaching consequences, and the
title emphasizes that everyone is part of a larger community. Joe’s initial failure to
see the pilots as his sons highlights a common human flaw—seeing responsibility
only towards one’s own family and not towards society as a whole. The play