8 June 2010The multiple similarities between "Oedipus Rex" and "Death of a Salesman" of the two tragedies overcome the differences and reveal the meaning of the dramatic tragedy over the centuries. The creativity and innovation of Greek tragedy continues to provide generations with a platform in which they can modify and ultimately give relevance to their culture. By analyzing these two dramatic tragedies, one can observe the distinct similarities regarding the foundations of human nature. This evidence confirms the credibility of the old saying "the more things change, the more they stay the same". This article will focus on the following: the analysis of the similarities, the similarities in detail and the meaning behind the similarities regarding “Oedipus Rex” and “Death of a Salesman”. Originating in Greece, tragedies were and remain a common phenomenon and popular form of dramatic entertainment. To be considered an authentic tragedy, the protagonist must belong to the aristocracy. This noble character begins the story as a likable person whose fate is foreshadowed with dramatic irony for the reader. The reader is aware of the errors of judgment that the protagonist inflicts on himself. Being the last to discover his unfortunate fate, the protagonist is devastated. The revelation is just too much to bear; therefore, the protagonist either commits suicide or inflicts pain or mutilation on himself. “Oedipus Rex” reflects all the essential components of a tragedy; however, “Death of a Salesman” lacks some of these defining characteristics. In “Death of a Salesman” the protagonist is not a “tragic hero” (Kennedy, Joy 1282) like Oedipus. He lacks the nobility that is a prerequisite for being... in the center of the card... and no royal figure; however, Miller was able to create a character that audiences could identify with and empathize with. Abandonment, deception and figurative blindness are events relevant to Greek society and over two thousand years later the topics remain relevant in our culture as well. The similarities between "Oedipus the King" and "Death of a Salesman" reveal that our culture is still intrigued by a dramatic innovation created over 2,400 years ago in Greece. Early tragedies like “Oedipus the King” continue to serve as a catalyst for modern tragedies like “Death of a Salesman.” Oedipus and Willy Loman endured the wrath of abandonment, tortured themselves with their own deception, and tragically succumbed to their own flaws. Modern tragedy varies from what it was in Sophocles' time; However, the dramatic industry's fundamentals remain strong.