intro to Arthur Miller's life

Question 1

when was miller born?

Answer 1

1915

Question 2

what family was miller born into?

Answer 2

a middle class Jewish family in New York city.

Question 3

what neighbourhood did he grow up in?

Answer 3

Brooklyn, his once comfortable family struggled economically after the great depression in the 1930’s

Question 4

how did his early life influence him to write the play?

Answer 4

his play explores the overwhelming economic and political forces that affect the fortunes of ordinary individuals, making them tragically fail to make their way in the world

Question 5

what was miller’s first stage success?

Answer 5

‘All my sons’ - about the effect of someone lost, and being classed as missing in WW2 and the effect this can have on a family. This would resonate with many people who had lost their sons during the war

Question 6

what prizes did Miller win because of death of a salesman?

Answer 6

• Pulitzer prize
• National fame

Question 7

In his later life, what was his link to communism?

Answer 7

• In 1952 he was called before the house of un-American activities. Accused of being a communist sympathiser
• despite pressure placed on him, he refused to give the names of others in the committee and was therefore punished

Question 8

what was his reputation around the world?

Answer 8

• he became an outspoken defender of freedom
• he gained international respect

Question 9

when did miller die?

Answer 9

2005