Analysis January 2012 Arthur Miller “Tragedy of the Common Man”

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Analysis January 2012 Arthur Miller “Tragedy of the Common Man”

“Tragedy of the Common Man” Modern Development of Tragedy Definition of tragedy: a disastrous event, especially one involving distressing loss or injury to life Modern development – definition has become less precise Fundamental change: rejection of Aristotle’s dictum that true tragedy can only depict those with power and high status Aristotle would believe tragedy to be “archaic” and fit only for the very highly placed, i.e. kings

“Tragedy of the Common Man” Arthur Miller’s essay argues that tragedy may also depict ordinary people in domestic surroundings (26) Miller states, “I believe that the common man is as apt a subject for tragedy in its highest sense as kids were.” Past, royal tragic heroes resonate with modern audiences because these royals share the same problems as the common man does today Same flaws, fears, and hopes

“Tragedy of the Common Man” Critics argue: true tragedy is impossible when your hero is a common man Not as many people suffer as they would if it were a king Counter argument: Not as many people suffer as they would if it were a king Is the size of tragedy really limited to the world of play? Can’t we look into the life of a common man and recognize our flaws? Can’t we see those flaws in society around us? Why can’t a common man’s life has size and meaning? In closing, Miller says, “It is time, I think, that we who are without kings took up this bright thread of our history and followed it to the only place it can possibly lead in our time – the heart and spirit of the average man.”

“Tragedy of the Common Man” Arthur Miller’s essay argues that tragedy may also depict ordinary people in domestic surroundings (26) British playwright Howard Barker has argued strenuously for the rebirth of tragedy in the contemporary theater Arguments for a Theater, “You emerge from tragedy equipped against lies. After the musical, you’re anybody’s fool,” he insists (27). Question for Essay consideration Discuss the ways in which you see Death of a Salesman as a “Tragedy of the Common Man.” Provide evidence from Miller’s article and the play itself. If you disagree, provide evidence that argues against Will as a tragic hero.