Arthur Miller was born on October 17, 1915 in New York City, New York. He grew up in a middle-class family and attended the University of Michigan, where he studied journalism. It was during his time at university that he discovered his passion for writing and theater.
After graduating from college, Miller worked as a journalist and night editor for the Michigan Daily. It was during this time that he wrote his first play, No Villain, which won the prestigious Avery Hopwood Award.
Miller's breakthrough came with his play All My Sons, which was produced on Broadway in 1947 and received critical acclaim. This was followed by the iconic Death of a Salesman, which premiered in 1949 and won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Miller's other notable works include The Crucible and A View from the Bridge.
Miller was married three times. His first marriage was to Mary Grace Slattery, followed by a brief and tumultuous marriage to actress Marilyn Monroe. In 1962, he married photographer Inge Morath, with whom he remained until his death in 2002. Miller had four children - two daughters, Rebecca and Jane, and two sons, Robert and Daniel.
Arthur Miller's impact on American theater is undeniable. His plays continue to be performed around the world and are celebrated for their exploration of the complexities of the human experience. In addition to his work in theater, Miller also wrote the screenplay for the film The Misfits, starring Marilyn Monroe.
In his later years, Miller continued to write and was a vocal advocate for social and political issues. He passed away on February 10, 2005, leaving behind a rich legacy of literary and theatrical achievements.
In 1985, a film adaptation of Death of a Salesman was released, with Dustin Hoffman in the starring role. This further cemented Miller's status as one of the greatest playwrights of the 20th century.
Arthur Miller's contributions to American theater and literature are immense. His plays are timeless classics that continue to resonate with audiences of all generations. His life and work serve as an enduring example of the power of storytelling and the enduring impact of great art.