The Men Who Couldn't Stop Crying, and Other Unbearable Realities
Jacob Geller・2 minutes read
The play "Death of a Salesman" by Arthur Miller explores themes of failure, unattainable dreams, and the harsh reality of the American Dream, sparking controversy and fear in audiences.
The translation "Memorial" of Homer's Iliad by Alice Oswald aims to evoke Enargeia, a Bright, Unbearable Reality, by recreating funeral and mourning rituals, capturing the intense emotions and experiences of the characters.
Insights
"Death of a Salesman" by Arthur Miller resonated with audiences in 1949 due to its exploration of failure, unattainable dreams, and the harsh reality of the American Dream, sparking controversy and critiques of capitalism and societal expectations.
Alice Oswald's translation of Homer's Iliad, "Memorial," aims to evoke the concept of Enargeia, a Bright, Unbearable Reality, to transport the audience into the intense emotional experiences depicted in ancient oral traditions, showcasing the profound impact of art in capturing vivid, challenging-to-articulate moments.
Get key ideas from YouTube videos. It’s free
Recent questions
What is "Death of a Salesman" about?
A salesman's struggles with unfulfilled dreams and family dynamics.
Why was "Death of a Salesman" controversial?
It critiqued capitalism and societal norms, sparking fear.
How did audiences react to "Death of a Salesman"?
They were emotionally moved and profoundly affected.
What is Enargeia in literature?
It induces vivid visualization and intense emotional experiences.
How did early film screenings impact audiences?
They offered hyperrealistic encounters with the fantastic.