Introduction

AnalysisJanuary 2012Arthur MillerTragedy of the Common ManTragedy of the Common ManModern Development of TragedyDefinition of tragedy: a disastrous event, especially one involving distressing loss or injury to life

Modern development definition has become less preciseFundamental change: rejection of Aristotles dictum that true tragedy can only depict those with power and high statusAristotle would believe tragedy to be archaic and fit only for the very highly placed, i.e. kings

Tragedy of the Common ManArthur Millers 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 todaySame flaws, fears, and hopes

Tragedy of the Common ManCritics argue: true tragedy is impossible when your hero is a common manNot 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 kingIs the size of tragedy really limited to the world of play?Cant we look into the life of a common man and recognize our flaws?Cant we see those flaws in society around us?Why cant a common mans 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 ManArthur Millers 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 theaterArguments for a Theater, You emerge from tragedy equipped against lies. After the musical, youre anybodys fool, he insists (27). Question for Essay considerationDiscuss the ways in which you see Death of a Salesman as a Tragedy of the Common Man. Provide evidence from Millers article and the play itself. If you disagree, provide evidence that argues against Will as a tragic hero.