Old Favorites: Arthur Miller

We’re focusing on newer books, movies, and television shows for 2019, but that doesn’t mean we’re entirely ignoring old favorites! After all, what’s that saying–what’s old may just become new again (or something like that)?

I’ve always loved reading plays–and especially mid-20th century American plays. My favorite playwright would probably be Tennessee Williams, but I also always enjoyed Arthur Miller’s work. Today marks 66 years since his play The Crucible premiered, and what better time to explore the life and career of this master of the American stage?

The Crucible (1953)*

You could definitely commemorate the anniversary by picking up a copy of The Crucible, a searing depiction of the Salem Witch Trial.

*Audiobook also available on Libby.

Death of a Salesman (1949)

Or if you’d rather avoid anything historical, you could instead visit or revisit his other classic play, Death of a Salesman.

An Enemy of the People (1977)

Or you could read Miller’s work more indirectly with his translation of another famous playwright’s work, in this case Norwegian Henrik Ibsen.

The Misfits (1961)

Not a fan of plays? That’s okay! Instead, try The Misfits, the Western film that Miller wrote the screenplay for. It also starred his then-wife Marilyn Monroe, though the process of making the film didn’t help the relationship. Nowadays, the movie is probably better known as the last film of both Monroe and co-star Clark Gable, with Miller’s connection often forgotten.

Instead of reading Miller’s work, you could also read about the man himself. He had an interesting life, beyond his ties to Marilyn and his writing career. He also ended up at the center of the 1950s Red Scare, an experience that deeply influenced his work, including The Crucible.

Are you an Arthur Miller fan? What’s your favorite play? Did you know he was married to Marilyn Monroe? Tell us in the comments! Please follow this link to our online library catalog.