An Analysis Of Arthur Miller's Characters In Selected Plays From The Perspectives Of Third Force Psychology And Machiavellianism
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Date
2014-07
Authors
Muhi, Maysoon Taher
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Universiti Sains Malaysia
Abstract
This study aims at providing a better understanding of Arthur Miller‟s dramas, All My Sons (1947), Death of a Salesman (1949), and After the Fall (1964). The study critically analyses the innermost layers of the protagonists‟ behaviours, and explores their motivational sources and personality traits. It reveals Machiavellian characteristics in behaviours and personal relationships that could be the main cause of the psychological conflicts reflected in their work and personal lives. The current study essentially focuses on the characters‟ endeavour to actualize themselves as the most successful persons at the expense of others‟ lives as well as alienation of themselves. The study rests on a combination of the theories namely that of Abraham Maslow (the Hierarchy of Human Needs) (1987), Karen Horney (the Basic Anxiety- the Neurotic Needs) (1937, 1939, 1945, & 1950) and Machiavellian theory of personality. Maslow‟s theory could predict the motivation for the self-actualization, Horney‟s could explain the interpersonal and intrapersonal conflicts, and the Machiavellian theory could describe the personality types and demonstrated behaviour. Perspectives from these theories reflect the struggle of the characters to actualize the self and at the same time to demonstrate the Machiavellian persona the world expects. Accordingly, this struggle explains their attitudes and behaviour. The current study demonstrates how this understanding of the common phenomenon
known as Machiavellianism could lead us to a better understanding of dynamic human relationships. Such an analysis, in turn, allows students, teachers, critics and theatrical practitioners to appreciate the subtle complexities of dramatic literary texts.
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Keywords
A better understanding of , Arthur Miller‟s dramas