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Death of a Salesman

Introduction

Arthur Miller's play "Death of a Salesman" is a classic American drama that explores themes of ambition, family, and the American Dream. First performed in 1949, the play has become a staple of American literature and continues to be widely studied and performed today.

Key Facts

  • Title: The title "Death of a Salesman" refers to Willy Loman's last day on earth.
  • Playwright: Arthur Miller wrote the play in 1948, with some elements being changed for the stage production by director Lee Strasberg and the New York City Shakespeare Festival.
  • Setting: The story takes place on Long Island, New York, specifically at Willy Loman's family home and other locations in Queens and Brooklyn.
  • Characters:
    • Willy Loman
    • Linda Loman
    • Biff Loman
    • Happy Loman
    • Ben Loman
    • Charley Mayerson

Historical Context

"The Death of a Salesman" was written during the Great Depression and World War II. Miller's experiences with his own family, including his father's struggles with mental illness and his mother's struggles with depression, heavily influenced his writing.

Miller also drew inspiration from various literary works, such as George Orwell's "Animal Farm," which explores themes of power, corruption, and individualism. The play was also influenced by the works of Greek tragedy, particularly Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex."

The play premiered at the New Victory Theatre in Manhattan on February 10, 1949.

Miller continued to revise and refine the manuscript before its publication in 1951.

Significant Contributions

  • Exploration of the American Dream: Miller's play offers a critical examination of the American Dream, which is often associated with wealth, status, and success.
  • Themes of Ambition and Family: The play explores the complexities of ambition, family dynamics, and the consequences of chasing one's desires without considering the impact on others.
  • Autobiographical Elements: Miller drew heavily from his own experiences as a young man, making "The Death of a Salesman" a semi-autobiographical work.

Miller's writing style is characterized by its concise prose, powerful dialogue, and nuanced characterization.

Notable Attractions

  • The New York City Shakespeare Festival: The play premiered at

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