Arthur Miller

Definition

Arthur Miller was an influential American playwright known for his critical social commentary and exploration of the human condition, especially in the context of the American Dream. His works often tackled significant social and political themes, questioning moral integrity and the consequences of individual actions within society, making him a prominent figure in 20th-century theater.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Miller's plays often reflect his personal experiences and broader societal issues, emphasizing the moral dilemmas faced by individuals.
2. He was accused of being a communist sympathizer during the McCarthy era, which affected both his career and personal life.
3. In addition to 'Death of a Salesman', Miller wrote several other acclaimed plays, including 'All My Sons' and 'A View from the Bridge', which also explore themes of responsibility and morality.
4. Miller believed that theater should serve as a means of addressing societal issues and promoting social change, making his works timeless and relevant.
5. His exploration of complex characters struggling against societal pressures resonates with audiences, making him a key figure in American drama.

Review Questions

• How does Arthur Miller's work reflect the social issues of his time, particularly concerning the American Dream?
  • Arthur Miller's plays often critique the concept of the American Dream by showcasing characters who face disillusionment and failure. For instance, in 'Death of a Salesman', Willy Loman represents the struggles many individuals faced while pursuing success in a rapidly changing society. Through his characters, Miller highlights the flaws in this ideal and questions the societal pressures that contribute to personal downfall.
• In what ways did McCarthyism influence Arthur Miller's writing, particularly in 'The Crucible'?
  • McCarthyism greatly influenced Arthur Miller's writing as it created an environment of fear and suspicion in America. In 'The Crucible', Miller uses the Salem witch trials as an allegory for this period, illustrating how hysteria can lead to unjust persecution. The play critiques not only the actions taken during McCarthyism but also warns against blind conformity and moral cowardice within society.
• Evaluate how Arthur Miller's portrayal of complex characters contributes to our understanding of social responsibility in his plays.
  • Arthur Miller's portrayal of complex characters invites audiences to consider their own moral responsibilities within society. By depicting individuals caught in challenging circumstances, such as Willy Loman’s quest for success or Joe Keller's ethical dilemmas in 'All My Sons', Miller encourages viewers to reflect on their actions and their implications. This focus on character depth fosters empathy and prompts discussions about accountability, making Miller’s work relevant to contemporary social issues.

Related terms

The Crucible: A play by Arthur Miller that serves as an allegory for McCarthyism, exploring themes of hysteria, reputation, and the impact of fear on society during the Salem witch trials.

Death of a Salesman: One of Miller's most famous plays that critiques the American Dream through the story of Willy Loman, a struggling salesman who grapples with his failures and societal expectations.

McCarthyism: A period of intense anti-communist sentiment in the United States during the early 1950s, which significantly influenced Miller's work, particularly in his critique of conformity and persecution.