ALL MY SONS BY ARTHUR MILLER.

Author Biography
Early Life and Early Career
Arthur Asher Miller was born into a Jewish immigrant family in New York City on October 17, 1915.
Miller's father, a small business owner in Manhattan, manufactured coats, while
Miller's literary-oriented mother taught at a public school. The family enjoyed financial success until the
stock market crashed in 1929, when, like many other Americans, they lost their
savings. This loss forced them to relocate from affluent Manhattan to working-class Brooklyn.
Miller's experience as a teenager growing up in Brooklyn was a mixture of the American dream and Great
Depression–era reality. He was a well-known and well-regarded football star
during high school. After graduation he worked his way through college, earning $15 per week at an auto
parts warehouse. He also took jobs as a truck driver, waiter, and tanker crewman. These experiences
never left Miller. Even after his success as a playwright, he valued the work ethic necessary to perform
these jobs and continued to labor in factories from time to time, saying, "Standing eight hours a day at a
machine in one place, you know what it's about." He
attended the University of Michigan, where he wrote for the student paper and studied playwriting,
completing his first play, No Villain, which received a Hopwood Award in Drama. After receiving his
degree, he returned to New York to write. One of his plays, The Man Who Had All the Luck (1944),
premiered on Broadway but closed after four performances, and his next works, two novels, were not
successful. However, his career changed with the opening of his play All My Sons in 1947. The realistic
drama, based on the revelation of war profiteering,
won Miller his first Tony Award for Best Author, along with the Drama Critics' Circle Award.

Midcareer
The effects of the global economic downturn of the Great Depression, with its financial hardships on
Miller's family and the entire country, would influence Miller's work and
characters, including the ambitions and dissatisfactions of his main characters, such as Joe Keller in All
My Sons and Willy Loman in Death of a Salesman. New York Times critic Brooks
Atkinson wrote that Willy Loman is a man haunted by "the phantom of his life" catching up with him:
"suddenly, there is nothing." Death of a Salesman, which opened at the Morosco
Theater in New York on February 10, 1949, shares a similar exploration of social themes as those in All
My Sons and became one of the best known and most highly revered plays
of the 20th century. It secured Miller's reputation as one of the country's greatest playwrights.
Miller as a Public Figure
Miller's next play was The Crucible, both performed and published in 1953. Miller wrote it as an allegory
about the dangers and hysteria of the Red Scare in the early 1950s, when the U.S. government used
loyalty oaths and investigations to identify citizens who were members of the
Communist Party or were communist sympathizers. This "witch hunt," led by Wisconsin senator Joseph

McCarthy, caused movie executives to blacklist, or bar, many screenwriters and caved to pressure from
the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) and gave the committee the names of friends and
acquaintances who followed a left-leaning philosophic agenda.
The Crucible was immediately recognized as an allegorical treatment of the devastating effects of
McCarthyism and brought Miller to the attention of Senator McCarthy and HUAC.
The government had considered Miller a communist sympathizer since 1940. Now the fear of being
subpoenaed by the HUAC led many critics to speak out against the play, and
many of Miller's friends shunned him. In 1954 the playwright felt the heat of the Red Scare
investigation when he was denied a passport. Two years later he was charged with contempt of Congress
for refusing to "name names" and implicate friends and acquaintances suspected of associating with the
Communist Party or any subversive—politically left—organizations. This charge was revoked in 1958 by
the U.S. Court of Appeals. Miller remained a controversial figure for many years because of his ideas that
challenged the system as a fierce critic of capitalism and what he saw as the abuse of the working class.
His tempestuous personal life caused much attention as well. His first marriage ended in divorce in 1956,
freeing him to marry Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe. The rocky marriage lasted four years. He then
married photographer Inge Morath in 1962. Their daughter is Rebecca Miller—filmmaker, writer, and
director.

Death and Legacy

Following the death of his third wife in 2002, Miller met a young painter, 55 years his junior, with whom
he was living when he died on February 10, 2005. In addition to his Pulitzer Prize, he amassed seven
Tony Awards, two Drama Critics' Circle Awards, and the John F. Kennedy Lifetime Achievement
Award, among other honors. His stage and film dramatizations of important societal issues, his political
activism, and his creation of memorable characters that face moral and social crises earned him
worldwide fame as one of the greatest American playwrights. His work is often performed and greatly
admired both in the United States and throughout the world.

The Great Depression

The Great Depression was the worst economic crisis in modern history, lasting from 1929 until
the beginning of World War II in 1939. The causes of the Great Depression included slowing
consumer demand, mounting consumer debt, decreased industrial production and the rapid and
reckless expansion of the U.S. stock market. When the stock market crashed in October 1929, it
triggered a crisis in the international economy, which was linked via the gold standard. A rash of
bank failures followed in 1930, and as the Dust Bowl increased the number of farm foreclosures,
unemployment topped 20 percent by 1933. Presidents Herbert Hoover and Franklin D.
Roosevelt tried to stimulate the economy with a range of incentives including Roosevelt’s New
Deal programs, but ultimately it took the manufacturing production increases of World War II to
end the Great Depression.
American Civil War
The American Civil War (April 12, 1861 – May 26, 1865; also known by other names) was
a civil war in the United States between the Union[e] ("the North") and the Confederacy ("the
South"), formed by states that had seceded from the Union. The cause of the war was the dispute
over whether slavery would be permitted to expand into the western territories, leading to
more slave states, or be prevented from doing so, which many believed would place slavery on a
course of ultimate extinction.
Decades of political controversy over slavery were brought to a head by the victory in the 1860
U.S. presidential election of Abraham Lincoln, who opposed slavery's expansion into the western
territories. Seven southern slave states responded to Lincoln's victory by seceding from the
United States and forming the Confederacy. The Confederacy seized U.S. forts and other federal
assets within their borders. Four more southern states seceded after the war began and, led by
Confederate President Jefferson Davis, the Confederacy asserted control over about a third of the
U.S. population in eleven states. Four years of intense combat, mostly in the South, ensued.
What led to the outbreak of the bloodiest conflict in the history of North America?
A common explanation is that the Civil War was fought over the moral issue of slavery.
In fact, it was the economics of slavery and political control of that system that was central to the
conflict.
A key issue was states' rights.
The Southern states wanted to assert their authority over the federal government so they could
abolish federal laws they didn't support, especially laws interfering with the South's right to keep
slaves and take them wherever they wished.
Another factor was territorial expansion.
The South wished to take slavery into the western territories, while the North was committed to
keeping them open to white labor alone.
Meanwhile, the newly formed Republican party, whose members were strongly opposed to the
westward expansion of slavery into new states, was gaining prominence.
The election of a Republican, Abraham Lincoln, as President in 1860 sealed the deal. His
victory, without a single Southern electoral vote, was a clear signal to the Southern states that
they had lost all influence.
Feeling excluded from the political system, they turned to the only alternative they believed was
left to them: secession, a political decision that led directly to war.

What Is the American Dream?

The American dream is the belief that anyone, regardless of where they were born or what class
they were born into, can attain their own version of success in a society in which upward
mobility is possible for everyone.

The American dream is believed to be achieved through sacrifice, risk-taking, and hard work,
rather than by chance.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

 The term "American dream" was coined in a best-selling book in 1931 titled Epic of
America.
 James Truslow Adams described it as "that dream of a land in which life should be
better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability
or achievement."
 The American dream was aided by a number of factors that gave the United States a
competitive advantage over other countries.
 Homeownership and education are often seen as paths to achieving the American dream.
 Though the definition of the American Dream has changed to mean different things to
different generations, it's undoubtedly part of the American ethos, and likely always will
be.

AUTHUR MILLER AS A DRAMATIST

Introduction
Arthur Miller (1915-2005) is one of the topmost American playwrights of present
time. He is bracketed with O' Neil and Tennessee Williams. He along with these two
revolutionized the development of drama. His plays, such as "Death of a Salesman"
and "The Crucible," explored the human condition, societal issues, and moral
dilemmas. Miller's use of realism, social criticism, and powerful characterizations
made him a pioneer in American theater. Miller has brought realism look to the
theatre. This is his greatest contribution. His is a social realism. His plays are family
centered. Miller in his plays successfully judge together the social and the
psychological. He is not only social reference but also a social critic.

Influences on Miller

Miller was influenced by the great depression of the civil war and socialism. O' Neil
and Chekhov also influenced him a great deal. Miller was considerably influenced by
expressionism, Realism, Naturalism and symbolism. Miller’s major plays are (1)
Death of a Salesman: (2) All My Sons (3) The Crucible (4) A View from the Bridge
(5) The Misfits (6) After the Fall (7) Incidental Vichy (8) The Prince (9)The Man
Who Had All the Luck

Miller's Views about Drama

Millers approach to playwright and the drama itself is organic. He believes that the
common man is apt a subject for tragedy in its highest sense as kings were. According
to him, tragedy is the consequence of man's total journey of life. He finds drama a
compulsory medium to evaluate himself. Miller believed that theater should reflect
society and tackle relevant social and political issues. Miller emphasized the
importance of realism and the exploration of human nature. He saw drama as a
powerful tool for provoking thought, challenging assumptions, and bringing about
social change.

Chief Characteristics of His Plays

Arthur Miller's plays are characterized by their intense exploration of human nature
and social issues. He skillfully weaves together personal and political conflicts, often
exposing the flaws of the American Dream. Miller's use of realistic dialogue, complex
characters, and moral dilemmas creates thought-provoking and emotionally resonant
theatrical experiences. Miller believes that the protagonist of the drama must enter
into meaningful social relationships. Miller does not believe in the 'art for arts
sake'. His plays are pieces of advice. His plays maybe called realities but they are also
naturalistic and expressionistic. Miller has concentrated on one subject- the struggle of
the individual to gain his rightful position of his society and his family.
Miller’s Characters

Millers characters are real. They are drawn from the contemporary American society.
Yet they have universal appeal. His characters are vivid and deeply human. They
often represent the common man, grappling with internal struggles and external
pressures. Miller imbues his characters with complex motivations, flaws, and virtues,
making them relatable and compelling. Through his characters, he explores themes of
identity, morality, and the consequences of one's actions. Most of Millers important
characters are from the business community.

His Plots

Millers plots are not traditional. They are then yet compactly woven. His plots are
dominated by ideas and mental states rather than a good story. However, plots are
intricately crafted, delving into the complexities of human relationships and society.
Often centered around a central conflict, his plays explore themes of betrayal, guilt,
and the pursuit of truth. Miller's narratives unfold with tension and suspense,
revealing the psychological and emotional struggles of his characters as they confront
their past and face the consequences of their actions. Miller makes the best use of the
facilities provided to the stage in the modern times. He had used in a dramatic way the
technique which in fiction is called 'streams of consciousness "technique. In 'Death of
a Salesman’ which Miller first called "The Inside of his Head " he has made a
beautiful use of this technique A brief discussion of this technique with reference to "
Death of a salesman " would make the point clear .

Conflict between the Individual and the Society

Miller's plays portray the conflict between the individual and the society. He portrays
characters struggling to maintain their integrity and individuality in the face of
societal pressures and expectations. Miller exposes the tension between personal
desires and societal norms, shedding light on the complexities of human existence
within a larger social framework. Miller said that society is inside of man and man is
inside of society “Thus the individual and the society are separate. The society is not
the sole villain. The tragic hero also has a tragic flow.

Play as a Species of Jurisprudence

In the above context a play may be called in the opinion of Miller as a 'species of
jurisprudence’. Through his plays, Miller examines the nature of justice,
accountability, and the consequences of human actions. He raises ethical and moral
questions, challenging the audience to reflect upon the complexities of society and
individual responsibility. Miller says that some fact of it takes the advocates role.
Something else must act in define. 'Death of a salesman' and “All My Sons "
are species of jurisprudence . Miller stands for Balance. He says “Balance is all".

Miller's Language

Miller combines in him the common speech, a poetic expression, rich imagery,
symbolism, realism, naturalism and expressionism. Here is clarity, precision, and
authenticity. He employs everyday speech patterns and vernacular to create a sense of
realism. Miller's dialogue is powerful, capturing the nuances of human interaction and
allowing the audience to connect deeply with his characters and their struggles.

Conclusion

To conclude, we can say that Bernard Shaw deals with the intellectual, the social, the
moral, Eliot with the moral, the religious; William Shakespeare with the
psychological. But Arthur Miller tries to deal with all these --- the intellectual the
social, the moral, the religious and the psychological. His plays continue to captivate
audiences with their powerful narratives, social commentary, and exploration of the
human condition. Miller's ability to depict complex characters and confront pressing
issues solidifies his place as a masterful and influential dramatist.

Key Points:

1. Miller was a social dramatist who wrote about the common man and the complex
relationships between individuals and society.
2. His plays often explored themes of guilt, responsibility, and the American dream.
3. He was a major figure in the American theater and helped to shape the development of
modern drama.
4. Miller's plays were often based on real-life events, such as the Salem witch trials and the
McCarthy era. This made his plays more relevant to his audience and helped to raise
awareness of important social issues.
5. Miller's plays were also known for their complex characters and their realistic dialogue.
This made his plays more believable and helped to create a sense of empathy for his
characters.
6. Miller's plays had a major influence on other playwrights, such as Tennessee Williams
and Edward Albee. These playwrights continued to explore the themes that Miller raised
in his plays, and they helped to shape the development of modern drama.

Social Dramatist
Arthur Miller is often considered a social dramatist due to his dedication to exploring and
critiquing societal issues in his plays. His works, particularly those from the mid-20th century,
delve deeply into the human condition, ethics, and the impact of social and political systems on
individuals. Here are some key aspects that highlight Miller's role as a social dramatist:
Social Commentary: Miller's plays are known for their strong social commentary. He uses the
stage to shed light on various societal problems, such as the American Dream, conformity,
justice, and the consequences of greed and ambition.
Allegory and Metaphor: Many of Miller's plays can be seen as allegorical or metaphorical
representations of broader societal issues. For example, "The Crucible" uses the Salem witch
trials as a metaphor for the McCarthy-era witch hunts and the dangers of mass hysteria.
Examination of Injustice: In works like "Death of a Salesman" and "A View from the Bridge,"
Miller explores the injustice and cruelty that can exist within society, especially towards
individuals who do not conform to societal norms or who are economically disadvantaged.
Human Tragedy: Miller's plays often depict the tragic aspects of human existence within the
context of larger social issues. His characters grapple with personal and moral dilemmas that are
intensified by the society in which they live.
Critique of Capitalism: Miller was critical of the capitalist system and its effects on the
individual. In "Death of a Salesman," he portrays the destructive nature of the pursuit of material
success and the toll it takes on the protagonist, Willy Loman.
The Individual vs. Society: Miller frequently pits the individual against society, highlighting the
tension between personal values, integrity, and societal expectations. This conflict is central to
many of his plays, including "The Crucible."
Historical and Political Context: Miller's works are often rooted in the historical and political
contexts of his time. "The Crucible," for instance, draws parallels between the Salem witch trials
and the McCarthy era's anti-communist investigations.
Moral Complexity: Miller's characters often grapple with complex moral dilemmas, challenging
the audience to reflect on their own ethical values and choices in the face of societal pressures.
Miller as a realist
Arthur Miller is often regarded as a realist playwright due to his commitment to depicting the
lives and struggles of ordinary people in a realistic and authentic manner. Here are some ways in
which Miller can be seen as a realist in his dramatic works:
Everyday Characters: Miller's plays typically feature characters from everyday life—common
people dealing with common problems. For example, "Death of a Salesman" portrays the life of
a struggling traveling salesman, Willy Loman, and his family.
Realistic Settings: Miller's plays are often set in ordinary, recognizable settings. Whether it's a
suburban home in "All My Sons" or a working-class neighborhood in "A View from the Bridge,"
he places his characters in environments that are relatable to many audience members.
Believable Dialogue: Miller's dialogue is grounded in the way people actually speak,
emphasizing naturalistic and conversational language. This approach helps the audience connect
with the characters and their stories on a personal level.
Psychological Realism: Miller delves into the psychological aspects of his characters, exploring
their inner thoughts, conflicts, and emotions in a realistic manner. This depth of character
development adds to the authenticity of his works.
Family Dynamics: Miller often focuses on family relationships and dynamics, portraying the
complexities and tensions that exist within families. These dynamics are relatable to many
viewers, making his plays resonate on a personal level.
Social Commentary: While Miller's works are firmly grounded in realism, they also serve as a
commentary on the larger social and cultural issues of their time. He uses real-life situations and
characters to critique societal norms and values.
Exploration of Human Flaws: Miller's characters are flawed individuals, which adds to their
realism. He explores human weaknesses, moral dilemmas, and the consequences of their actions
in a way that feels true to life.
Connection to Historical Events: Some of Miller's plays, like "The Crucible," are based on
historical events but are approached with a realist lens. He portrays the human reactions and
consequences of these events in a manner that feels authentic.
Significance of the title all my sons
The title "All My Sons," a play written by Arthur Miller and first performed in 1947, holds
significant thematic and symbolic meaning within the context of the play. Here are some key
aspects of the title's significance:
Family Ties: The title "All My Sons" immediately draws attention to the theme of family. The
play revolves around the Keller family and the interconnectedness of its members. It suggests
that everything the father, Joe Keller, has done and all the consequences that follow ultimately
affect "all his sons," both his biological children and the figurative sons, representing the broader
community and society.
Personal Responsibility: The title underscores the idea of personal responsibility and the moral
obligations one has toward their family and society as a whole. Joe Keller's actions in the past
have far-reaching consequences, and the title implies that he sees all the young men who fought
in the war as his own sons, morally binding him to their welfare.
Moral Dilemma: The central conflict of the play revolves around a moral dilemma faced by Joe
Keller. His decision to ship faulty airplane parts to the military during World War II leads to the
deaths of young pilots, including his own son, Larry. The title "All My Sons" highlights the
moral conflict Joe experiences as he grapples with his responsibility for the deaths of these
young men.
Legacy and Guilt: The title suggests the enduring legacy of Joe Keller's actions and the guilt he
carries for the lives lost. His choices continue to haunt him and affect not only his own family
but also the families of the soldiers who died due to the defective parts.
Community and Society: Beyond the Keller family, the title also symbolizes the broader
community and society. Joe Keller's actions represent a broader societal issue of profit-driven
decisions at the expense of human lives. The consequences of his choices affect not only his
immediate family but also the larger community.