Tragedy

Aristotle’s definition of Tragedy: In the sixth book of The Poetics, Aristotle defines tragedy
as “an imitation of an action of high importance, complete and of some amplitude; in
language enhanced by distinct and varying beauties; acted not narrated; by means of pity and
fear effecting its purgation of these emotions.” (It represents men in action, and through pity
and fear it effects relief). By watching the tragic events on stage, the audience is meant to
experience a catharsis or spiritual cleansing.
It is a play that portrays a serious conflict between human beings and a superior force. It ends
sorrowfully and disastrously.
Tragic hero:
The protagonist, noble in social rank (king, queen, member of a royal family) and personality
(high moral qualities). He must fall from power/happiness, be destroyed because of a
confrontation between individual and fate. He must suffer and bear the burden of the “tragic
guilt,” the rebellion against divine authority.
Causes of tragic downfall:
Hamartia: an offense committed in ignorance of certain facts. It is a great mistake made as a
result of an error in judgment by a morally good person.
Tragic flaw: moral weakness( negative quality) in the nature of the protagonist.
Hubris: extreme pride, overconfidence led to his ruin.
The hero’s downfall is the result of his hamartia or his tragic flaw, acts for which he is
responsible because he is capable of making choices.