Tragedy has long been a powerful and enduring form of storytelling, dating back to ancient Greek theater and continuing to captivate audiences to this day. Playwright Arthur Miller challenged the traditional view of tragedy with his essay "Tragedy and the Common Man." In this essay, Miller argues that the common man is just as capable of experiencing tragedy as the nobleman or king. According to him, the struggles and difficulties faced by ordinary individuals can be just as profound and impactful as those faced by elites. Miller challenges the traditional Aristotelian definition of tragedy, which typically centers on a high-born protagonist who experiences a downfall due to his own tragic flaw. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay One of the key elements that Miller identifies as essential to tragedy is the concept of the "tragic flaw." This defect is not limited to the aristocracy, but can be found in people of all walks of life. Whether it's arrogance, jealousy, or lack of self-awareness, the tragic flaw is what ultimately leads to the protagonist's downfall. Miller suggests that the common man is as susceptible to these flaws as anyone else, and that his struggles and failures are as tragic as those of a king or queen. Furthermore, Miller argues that tragedy is not reserved for what is exceptional or extraordinary, but can be found in the most ordinary circumstances. He believes that the struggles and triumphs of the common man are as worthy of being explored and celebrated as those of a legendary hero. Focusing on the daily lives of ordinary individuals, Miller challenges us to see the beauty and complexity of the seemingly mundane. Furthermore, Miller's argument challenges the traditional notion of the noble-born tragic hero. He highlights universal human experience as the foundation of tragedy, emphasizing that the common man is capable of experiencing the same deep emotions and moral dilemmas as any tragic hero. This perspective opens up the possibility of exploring tragedy across a more diverse range of characters and situations, allowing for a richer and more inclusive representation of the human experience. Furthermore, Miller's redefinition of tragedy to include the experiences of the common man encourages a more empathetic and relatable view. approach to storytelling. By shining a spotlight on the struggles and triumphs of everyday individuals, it reminds us of the universal nature of human suffering and the potential for growth and resilience in the face of adversity. This broader and more inclusive perspective on tragedy offers a deeper understanding of the human condition and provides a platform to listen to and understand diverse voices and experiences. Please note: this is just an example. Get a Custom Paper Now from Our Expert Writers Get a Custom Essay In conclusion, Arthur Miller's essay "Tragedy And The Common Man" presents a bold and revolutionary perspective on the nature of tragedy. By challenging traditional notions of tragedy and elevating the common man to the status of tragic hero, Miller invites us to reconsider our understanding of this timeless form of storytelling. Through the exploration of universal human experiences and the recognition of the profound struggles faced by ordinary individuals, Miller reminds us that tragedy is not limited to elites, but is a fundamental aspect of the human condition. His essay encourages a more inclusive and empathetic approach to storytelling, broadening the scope of tragedy to embrace humanity's diverse experiences.