Arthur Miller
Arthur Miller: A Literary Titan
Full Name and Common Aliases
Arthur Asher Miller, commonly known simply as Arthur Miller, was a towering figure in American literature and theater. His name is synonymous with some of the most profound and enduring plays of the 20th century.
Birth and Death Dates
Arthur Miller was born on October 17, 1915, and passed away on February 10, 2005. His life spanned nearly a century, during which he witnessed and chronicled significant social and political changes in America.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Arthur Miller was an American playwright and essayist. His works have left an indelible mark on the landscape of American theater, and he is celebrated as one of the greatest dramatists of the 20th century.
Early Life and Background
Arthur Miller was born in Harlem, New York City, to a family of Polish-Jewish descent. His father, Isidore Miller, was a successful businessman, while his mother, Augusta Barnett, was an educator and a staunch supporter of her children's education. The Great Depression had a profound impact on Miller's family, leading to financial hardship and shaping his worldview. This period of economic struggle deeply influenced his writing, as themes of social injustice and the American Dream became central to his work.
Miller attended the University of Michigan, where he studied journalism and playwriting. It was here that he honed his craft, winning several awards for his early plays. His time at university was pivotal, setting the stage for a career that would redefine American theater.
Major Accomplishments
Arthur Miller's career was marked by numerous accolades and achievements. He received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1949 for his play "Death of a Salesman," which is often hailed as one of the greatest plays of the 20th century. Miller's ability to capture the essence of the human condition and the complexities of the American experience earned him critical acclaim and a lasting legacy.
In addition to the Pulitzer, Miller received multiple Tony Awards, the Kennedy Center Honors, and the National Medal of Arts. His works have been translated into numerous languages and continue to be performed worldwide, underscoring his global impact.
Notable Works or Actions
Arthur Miller's oeuvre includes some of the most significant plays in American theater. "Death of a Salesman" explores the disillusionment of the American Dream through the tragic story of Willy Loman, a struggling salesman. "The Crucible," another of Miller's masterpieces, uses the Salem witch trials as an allegory for the McCarthy-era witch hunts, highlighting the dangers of hysteria and ideological extremism.
Other notable works include "A View from the Bridge," "All My Sons," and "The Price." Each of these plays delves into themes of morality, identity, and the human struggle for dignity and justice. Miller's ability to weave complex narratives with rich character development has cemented his status as a literary giant.
Impact and Legacy
Arthur Miller's impact on theater and literature is profound and enduring. His plays are not only staples of American theater but also serve as critical commentaries on societal issues. Miller's exploration of themes such as the American Dream, identity, and morality resonate with audiences across generations.
His legacy extends beyond his written works. Miller was an outspoken advocate for freedom of expression and was famously called before the House Un-American Activities Committee during the Red Scare. His refusal to name names and his defense of artistic freedom are testaments to his integrity and courage.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Arthur Miller is widely quoted and remembered for his incisive observations on human nature and society. His ability to articulate the struggles and aspirations of ordinary people has made his words timeless. Quotes from his plays, such as "Attention, attention must be finally paid to such a person," from "Death of a Salesman," capture the essence of his empathetic and insightful perspective on life.
Miller's works continue to be studied and performed, reflecting their enduring relevance and power. His contributions to literature and theater have left an indelible mark, ensuring that his voice and vision will be remembered for generations to come.
Quotes by Arthur Miller
Arthur Miller's insights on:
You cannot catch a child's spirit by running after it; you must stand still, and, for love, it will soon itself return.
For a salesman, there is no rock bottom to the life. He don’t put a bolt to a nut, he don’t tell you the law or give you medicine He’s a man way out there in the blue, riding on a smile and a shoeshine. And when they start not smiling back — that’s an earthquake... A salesman is got to dream, boy. It comes with the territory.
All organization is and must be grounded on the idea of exclusion and prohibition just as two objects cannot occupy the same space.
For a salesman, there is no rock bottom to the life...A salesman is got to dream, boy. It comes with a territory.
Though our own hearts break, we cannot flinch; these are new times, sir. There is a misty plot afoot so subtle we should be criminal to cling to old respect and ancient friendships. I have seen too many frightful proofs in court the Devil is alive in Salem, and we dare not quail to follow wherever the accusing finger points!
Glamour, that trans-human aura or power to attract imitation, is a kind of vessel into which dreams are poured, and some vessels are simply worthier than others. A beautiful woman can turn heads but real glamour has a deeper pull. Glamour is the power to rearrange people's emotions, which, in effect, is the power to control one's environment.