Abstract: Arthur Miller’s essay Tragedy and the Common Man (1949) constitute a landmark redefinition of tragic theory in modern drama. Challenging the classical Aristotelian notion that tragedy must centre on kings or noble figures, Miller argues that the common man is equally capable of tragic stature. This paper examines Miller’s theoretical framework of tragedy as articulated in the essay, focusing on his concepts of dignity, moral responsibility, social conflict, and tragic optimism. Through close textual analysis and critical interpretation, the study explores how Miller reconceptualises the tragic hero, redefines the tragic flaw, and situates tragedy within the social realities of modern capitalist society. The paper also demonstrates how Miller’s theory provides the philosophical foundation for Death of a Salesman and reshapes twentieth-century dramatic practice. Ultimately, the paper argues that Miller’s vision of tragedy affirms the moral value of ordinary human lives and establishes tragedy as a powerful instrument of social critique and humanistic affirmation.
Dr. Seema Dalal (Sun,) studied this question.