MODERN TRAGEDY

Supporting Lecturer : Irawansyah, M.Pd.

Subject : Drama
Semester 5 / Class 5C

Arranged by Group 5 :

Annisa Badriatul Aini 2111040012

Dhika Rizky Luqman 2111040148
Ika Ilma Yanti 2111040047
Syahra Vaiola Wibowo 2111040103
Tiara Amanda Sinta 2111040230

RADEN INTAN STATE ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY OF LAMPUNG

FACULTY OF TARBIYAH AND TEACHER TRAINING
ENGLISH EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
2023 / 2024
 DISCUSSION

a. Definition of Modern Tragedy

Aristotle, in his seminal work "Poetics," defined tragedy as an imitative art form that
arouses pity and fear in its audience. According to Aristotle, a tragedy typically involves a
protagonist of noble stature, known as the tragic hero, who undergoes a reversal of fortune
due to a tragic flaw (hamartia) or error in judgment. This reversal leads to the hero's downfall,
often culminating in their death.1

Aristotle outlined several components of tragedy, including plot, character, thought, diction,
melody, and spectacle. He emphasized the importance of a well-structured plot with a
beginning, middle, and end, where the events are causally connected. The tragic hero's
misfortune should evoke a cathartic emotional response in the audience, purging them of
excessive emotions and leading to a sense of emotional balance or purification.

Raymond Williams, a cultural critic, stated, "Modern tragedy is a form that reflects the
conflicts arising from contemporary social and political structures. It often emphasizes the
struggles of ordinary individuals within complex and changing societies, focusing on their
internal dilemmas and societal pressures leading to their downfall."2

James Moran, a scholar in film and literature, states, "Modern tragedy is a narrative that
challenges traditional tragic conventions by incorporating elements of contemporary society.
It often portrays flawed characters in a world where societal structures, technology, or cultural
shifts contribute to their downfall, exploring themes of alienation, disconnection, or moral
ambiguity in the modern era."3

The detailed definition of modern tragedy involves a departure from classical conventions,
as seen through the lens of cultural critics such as Raymond Williams and scholars like James
Moran. In the modern context, tragedy is characterized by narratives that focus on the conflicts
emerging from contemporary social, political, and cultural structures. Unlike classical
tragedies centered around noble figures, modern tragedy often portrays ordinary individuals
facing internal dilemmas and societal pressures within complex and evolving societies.

1 Aristotle, Poetics, ed. by Joe Sachs (Focus Publishing, 2006).

2 Raymond Williams, Modern Tragedy, ed. by Pamela McCallum, I (Canada: Broadview Publisher Ltd.,
1966).
3 Kimberly John Babcock, ‘Modern Dramatic Tragedy and Aristotle’s Poetics: A Comparison’,

Dissertations, Thesis, and Master Projects , 1987 <https://doi.org/10.21220/s2-wdc6-xk68>.

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 Key elements of modern tragedy include the exploration of flawed characters grappling
with issues like alienation, disconnection, and moral ambiguity. These characters navigate a
world influenced by societal structures, technological advancements, and cultural shifts, which
contribute to their downfall. Modern tragedy, therefore, reflects the complexities of the human
experience in the contemporary era, shedding light on existential crises, ethical quandaries,
and the impact of the modern world on individuals' lives.

b. History of Modern Tragedy

Modern tragedy emerged in the 19th century in Europe as authors sought to break away
from classical tragedy's focus on high-class characters and heroic struggles. Instead, they
shifted toward portraying the daily problems and struggles of the common man as the new
fabric of tragedy. This change centered narratives on the constant struggles of ordinary
individuals who, driven by impulses and everyday temptations, became the new focus of tragic
storytelling. While the birth of modern tragedy has sparked various debates—some viewing it
as an evolution of classical tragedy and others as a complete rejection—many still see it as a
continuation and transformation of classical foundations. Influential authors like Henrik Ibsen,
August Strindberg, Anton Chekhov in Europe, and Eugene O'Neill and Tennessee Williams in
America played key roles in reshaping and renewing the essence of tragedy for their time.4

James Moran, a scholar renowned for his contributions to film and literature, is associated
with analyzing the evolution of modern tragedy within contemporary narratives. In his
perspective, modern tragedy departs from classical conventions, often featuring ordinary
individuals navigating intricate societal structures rather than focusing on characters of noble
birth. Within this framework, personal dilemmas concerning alienation, societal pressures, or
moral uncertainties become prominent.5

The divergence from deterministic, fate-driven narratives typical of classical tragedy is

noted by Moran in modern tragedies. These narratives explore how the downfall of characters
is influenced by societal, technological, or cultural shifts rather than solely by predetermined
fate. Moran's analysis centers on how modern tragedy mirrors the complexities of the
contemporary human experience, shedding light on existential crises, ethical quandaries, and
the impact of the modern world on individuals' lives.

4 Hayfaa A Ahmed, Classical Tragedy and Modern Tragedy: Difference and Similarity, 2022.
5 James Moran, Modern Tragedy, I (Blomsbury Publisher, 2023).

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 The historical trajectory of tragedy, from its classical origins to its manifestations in the
modern era, was traced by Raymond Williams in his book "Modern Tragedy." The changing
social, political, and cultural landscapes were highlighted by Williams as reflections within the
transformation of tragedy.

In his analysis, emphasis was placed by Williams on the divergence of modern tragedy
from traditional notions found in ancient Greek drama or Shakespearean plays. It was argued
by him that the classical tragic form, rooted in the actions and fates of noble figures, underwent
significant changes in the modern context.

The focus of modern tragedies was shifted by Williams from aristocratic protagonists to
ordinary individuals, often from the working class or marginalized segments of society. These
characters grappled with existential dilemmas, social injustices, and the complexities of
contemporary life.6

It was observed by him that the essence of tragedy persisted in these modern narratives,
but the nature of the conflicts and the sources of downfall evolved. Instead of being solely
driven by fate or external forces, the tragedies of the modern era often stemmed from societal
structures, technological advancements, cultural shifts, and personal struggles within a rapidly
changing world.

The ways in which modern tragedy reflects the tensions, anxieties, and moral ambiguities
prevalent in society were highlighted by Williams in his analysis, shedding light on the human
condition amidst the complexities of the modern age.

c. Characteristics of Modern Tragedy

Characteristics in drama refer to the distinguishing features, traits, and qualities of the
characters portrayed in a play or theatrical work. These characteristics define the
personalities, behaviors, motivations, and interactions of the individuals within the story. They
shape the roles and relationships between characters and drive the narrative forward.

Raymond Williams, in his exploration of modern tragedy, highlighted several characteristics

that distinguish it from classical tragedy. In modern tragedy:

6 Ahmed.

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 1. Shift in Protagonists
Ordinary individuals from diverse social backgrounds take the place of aristocratic figures as
the central characters. These characters often struggle within complex societal structures.

2. Focus on Internal Conflict

The emphasis lies on internal dilemmas faced by characters, reflecting personal struggles,
existential crises, and societal pressures within contemporary life.

3. Evolution of Downfall
The downfall of characters is often attributed to societal structures, technological
advancements, or cultural shifts, rather than solely being driven by fate or external forces.

4. Reflection of Contemporary Society

Modern tragedy reflects tensions, anxieties, and moral ambiguities prevalent in contemporary
society, addressing themes like alienation, disconnection, and the complexities of the modern
world.

Williams' analysis underscores how modern tragedy has evolved to mirror the multifaceted
challenges and conflicts of the modern human experience, moving away from the classical
constructs of tragedy.7

Meanwhile the definition of modern tragedy can vary depending on the perspective of
different literary scholars, critics, and theorists. However, a common understanding of modern
tragedy involves the adaptation of traditional tragic elements to reflect the complexities and
challenges of contemporary life. Here are key points derived from literary resources:

1. Complex Characters and Everyday Settings

Modern tragedies often feature protagonists with intricate psychological profiles and unfold in
ordinary, contemporary settings. This departure from classical tragedies reflects a desire to
make the narratives more relatable to a diverse audience.

2. Moral Ambiguity
Unlike classical tragedies with clear moral lessons, modern tragedies frequently explore
morally ambiguous situations. The characters may face dilemmas where right and wrong are
not easily distinguishable, reflecting the moral complexities of the modern world.

7 Williams.

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 3. Social Critique
Many modern tragedies incorporate elements of social or political critique. Themes such as
alienation, the impact of societal structures, and the consequences of individual and collective
actions on a broader scale are common in modern tragic narratives.

4. Existential Themes
Existentialist ideas often permeate modern tragedies, emphasizing the individual's search for
meaning in an indifferent or chaotic world. Characters may grapple with questions of identity,
purpose, and the nature of existence.

5. Psychological Depth
Modern tragic characters are portrayed with a focus on psychological depth, exploring the
intricacies of human emotions, motivations, and relationships. This emphasis on the internal
struggles of characters contributes to the modern interpretation of tragedy.

6. Lack of Clear Resolution

Modern tragedies may conclude without providing clear resolutions or answers. This open-
endedness reflects the uncertainty and complexity of contemporary life, leaving audiences to
grapple with unanswered questions.

7. Incorporation of Symbolism and Metaphor

Symbolic elements and metaphors are often used in modern tragedies to convey deeper
layers of meaning. These literary devices contribute to the richness and complexity of the
narrative.

It's important to note that the definition of modern tragedy is dynamic and can evolve over
time as literary trends and societal values change. Different playwrights, authors, and creators
may offer nuanced interpretations of modern tragedy based on their unique perspectives and
the cultural contexts in which they work.

Modern tragedy diverges from classical norms, emphasizing irony to highlight life's
absurdity without transforming it into comedy. Characters pursue grand dreams and goals,
contributing to their own tragic fate through the absurdity of their actions.8

8 MaryIsabella Ada Chidi-Igbokwe, The Concept and Characteristics of Classical,

Renaissance and Modern Tragedies, European Journal of English Language and Literature Studies,
2022, X <https://www.eajournals.org/>.

5
 Unlike Aristotle's classical criteria—focused on unity of time, place, and the inevitability of
a high-ranking protagonist seeking a greater good—modern tragedy plays with narrative and
literary devices. It disregards temporal and spatial constraints while maintaining the tragic
end.9

Modern tragedies employ resources like flashbacks, temporal shifts, and deep explorations
of characters' psyches. Characters' decisions drive the resolution, no longer adhering to
specific archetypes, providing a more individualistic outcome.10

d. Types of Modern Tragedy

Types of drama refer to a specific category or style of drama that focuses on portraying
certain types or archetypes of characters, situations, or themes within a theatrical production.
Modern tragedy has evolved to encompass a range of themes and styles. Some notable types
of modern tragedy include:

1. Existential Tragedy
Explores the struggles of individuals dealing with the meaninglessness and absurdity of life,
often influenced by existentialist philosophy.

2. Political Tragedy
Examines the tragic consequences of political actions, societal conflicts, or revolutions,
reflecting on the impact of power struggles on individuals.

3. Domestic Tragedy
Focuses on personal and familial conflicts, often depicting the tragic outcomes of relationships,
secrets, and societal expectations within a domestic setting.

4. Psychological Tragedy
Explores the internal struggles and psychological complexities of characters, delving into
mental and emotional turmoil.

5. Postmodern Tragedy
Challenges traditional notions of tragedy, incorporating elements of irony, satire, and
unconventional storytelling to question established norms and expectations.

9 Noyes, ‘Aristotle and Modern Tragedy’, Modern Language Notes, xiii.I (1898), 12.
10 Ada Chidi-Igbokwe, X.

6
 6. Environmental Tragedy
Explores the tragic consequences of environmental degradation, climate change, or human
impact on the natural world.

7. Social Tragedy
Examines the impact of societal norms, prejudices, and injustices on individuals or groups,
highlighting systemic issues and their tragic consequences.

These types of modern tragedy often reflect the complexities and uncertainties of
contemporary life, exploring a wide range of human experiences and dilemmas. These types
of modern tragedies showcase the diverse ways playwrights engage with themes of suffering,
fate, and the human experience while adapting the classical tragic form to contemporary
settings and perspectives.11

e. Principles of Modern Tragedy

The principles of drama refer to fundamental guidelines or key elements that form the
foundation of theatrical storytelling. These principles help create compelling and effective
narratives, characters, and performances within dramatic works. The principles of modern
tragedy have evolved over time and vary across different works. However, some common
principles include:

1. Complex Characters
Modern tragedies often feature characters with multidimensional personalities, grappling with
internal conflicts, moral ambiguities, and complex motivations.

2. Everyday Settings
Unlike classical tragedies set in royal courts, modern tragedies often unfold in ordinary,
everyday settings, making the stories more relatable to a broader audience.

3. Absence of Divine Intervention

Unlike classical tragedies where fate or gods played a significant role, modern tragedies often
lack divine intervention, placing more emphasis on human agency and existential dilemmas.

11 Babcock.

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 4. Realism and Relevance
Modern tragedies tend to portray realistic and relatable situations, addressing contemporary
issues, societal conflicts, or psychological complexities that resonate with audiences.

5. Psychological Depth
Modern tragic works delve into the psychological aspects of characters, exploring their
emotions, fears, and inner struggles as integral elements of the tragic narrative.

6. Ambiguity and Irony

Many modern tragedies incorporate elements of ambiguity and irony, challenging traditional
notions of morality and fate. This can create a sense of uncertainty and provoke thought in the
audience.

7. Social and Political Commentary

Modern tragedies often address contemporary social or political issues, reflecting the
challenges and conflicts of the times in which they are written.

8. Nonlinear Narrative
Some modern tragedies employ nontraditional storytelling techniques, such as nonlinear
narratives or fractured timelines, to enhance the impact and complexity of the tragic events.

9. Individual vs. Society

Modern tragedies frequently explore the tension between individual desires and societal
expectations, examining how societal norms and structures contribute to tragic outcomes.

10. Moral Ambiguity

Moral dilemmas and ethical gray areas are often central to modern tragedies, challenging
audiences to confront the complexity of human choices and actions.

These principles reflect the evolution of tragedy to address contemporary concerns and the
complexities of the modern world, emphasizing the individual's role and the uncertainties
inherent in human existence.12

12 Babcock.

8
 f. Subject and Components of Modern Tragedy
The subject of modern tragedy is not drawn from myth or legend, neither is it man-god
relationship. Rather, playwrights are concerned with issues of contemporary daily life. The
issues bothering the middleclass are always the topic of modern tragedy. Society may serve
as the oppressor of our modern tragic man without means to fight his battle, protect himself or
his family or to seek moral intellectual guidance he may have been poorly served by an
uncaring and unkind society. The hero of modern tragedy frequently appears as the victim of
circumstances. Circumstances, environment, forces, outside of himself often drive him into a
situation from which he cannot emerge victorious. Maeterlinck notes that in modern tragedy,
"there is no longer a god to widen or master the action nor is there an exorable fate to form a
mysterious solemn and tragical background for the slightest gesture of man (...). (69)13

The components of drama refer to the essential elements that form the structure and
content of a theatrical production. These components include plot, characters, setting,
dialogue, theme, conflict, stagecraft, and symbolism, working together to create a cohesive
and impactful theatrical experience. Each component plays a vital role in shaping the story,
characters, and overall message conveyed to the audience.

Components in modern tragedy:

1. Complex Protagonists
Modern tragedies often feature protagonists with intricate psychological profiles, grappling
with internal conflicts and complex motivations.

2. Everyday Settings
Unlike classical tragedies set in grand or mythical realms, modern tragedies frequently unfold
in ordinary, contemporary settings, making them more relatable to a diverse audience.

3. Moral Ambiguity
Modern tragedies often explore morally ambiguous situations, presenting characters and
choices without clear-cut distinctions between right and wrong.

4. Social Critique
Many modern tragedies incorporate elements of social or political critique, addressing
contemporary issues and reflecting societal concerns.

13MaryIsabella Ada Chidi-Igbokwe, The Concept and Characteristics of Classical,

Renaissance and Modern Tragedies, European Journal of English Language and Literature Studies,
2022, X <https://www.eajournals.org/>.

9
 5. Existential Themes
Existentialist ideas, such as the search for meaning in an indifferent world, often pervade
modern tragedies, influencing character development and narrative structure.

6. Psychological Depth
Modern tragic characters are portrayed with a focus on psychological depth, exploring the
complexities of human emotions and relationships.

7. Nonlinear Narratives
Some modern tragedies employ nonlinear storytelling techniques, disrupting traditional
chronological order to emphasize specific events or perspectives.

8. Individual Alienation
Themes of individual alienation, isolation, or disconnection from society play a significant role
in many modern tragic narratives.

9. Symbolism and Metaphor

Symbolic elements and metaphors are frequently used to convey deeper layers of meaning
and contribute to the overall tragic atmosphere.

10. Lack of Clear Resolution

Unlike classical tragedies with clear moral lessons, modern tragedies often conclude without
providing easy answers, leaving audiences to grapple with unresolved questions.

These components collectively contribute to the distinctive nature of modern tragedy,

reflecting the evolution of the genre in response to changing cultural, social, and philosophical
landscapes.

g. Aspects of Modern Tragedy

Modern tragedy refers to literary or dramatic works that combine elements of classical
tragedy with nuances and contexts of the contemporary era. This understanding reflects the
adaptation and evolution of the tragic genre in response to changing values, perspectives, and
challenges of the modern age. Several aspects characterize modern tragedy, including:
1. Contemporary Characters and Settings
Modern tragedies often place their characters in contemporary settings and situations. This
includes characters from various social layers, not limited to aristocratic or royal figures as in
classical tragedies.

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 2. Psychological Complexity
Characters in modern tragedy possess greater psychological depth. They are often complex,
with internal conflicts and motivations that are more intricate, reflecting the emotional and
moral confusion of the modern world.

3. Moral Ambiguity
Modern tragedies tend to explore morally ambiguous situations where the concepts of right
and wrong become more complex, reflecting the moral intricacies of contemporary society.

4. Social and Political Critique

Many modern tragedies incorporate elements of criticism towards social and political
structures. They may present stories that reflect issues such as alienation, inequality, or the
impact of systemic injustice.

5. Uncertain Resolution
In contrast to classical tragedies that often have clear-cut resolutions, modern tragedies may
end without clear answers or with unanswered questions. This mirrors the confusion and
uncertainty encountered in real-life situations.

6. Utilization of Modern Techniques

In dramatic forms, the use of modern techniques such as experimental writing styles, non-
linear narratives, or innovative theatrical elements is often found in modern tragedies.14

The understanding of modern tragedy reflects the complexity of our time and the efforts of
writers to explore existential challenges and questions relevant to the context of our present
lives.

h. Differences Classical Tragedy and Modern Tragedy

Tragedy has tended to be a form of drama concerned with the fortunes and misfortunes,
and, ultimately, the disasters that befall human beings of title, power, and position. In classical
tragedy, for instance: Oedipus, Agamemnon, Antigone, Hecuba, Romeo and Juliet, Antony
and Cleopatra, Hamlet, what make them tragic figures is that they have qualities of excellence,
nobleness, and passion; they have virtues and gifts that lift them above the ordinary run of
mortal men and women. In tragedy, these attributes are seen to be insufficient to save them
either from self-destruction or from destruction brought upon them. Moreover, there is no hope

14 James Moran, Modern Tragedy, I (Blomsbury Publisher, 2022).

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for them. There is hope, perhaps, after the tragedy, but not during it. The overwhelming part
about tragedy is the element of hopelessness, of inevitability. (Cuddon, 1998, 927-28).15

Modern tragedians, on the other hand, dramatized the conflict between the alienated
individual, who aspires to some alternative world of the imagination and narrow social
conventions, designed to crush such aspiration (Wallace, 2007, 63). Raymond Williams
asserts that by the time of Marlowe and Shakespeare, the structure known today was being
formed; an individual man, from his ambitions, from his personality, set out on an action which
led him to tragedy (88). Ibsen, for instance, introduced Hedda Gabler as an example of
dramatic realism. It is a new genre that was rooted in the late 19th-century enchantment by
examining human individuality as a story of cause and effect. The idea is to realize how the
effect of the past- heredity, and experienceas well as the social and economic conditions of
the present, impacted the nature of the behavior of the individual. Interestingly, these social
and psychological 'causes' replaced the roles of gods and fate in the classical tragedy (Lyons,
1991, 63).16

Classical and modern tragedies differ in several key aspects:

Classical Tragedy
1. Protagonist: Typically a royal or noble figure.
2. Time Span: The story usually unfolds within a single time span.
3. Story: Often revolves around nobility, their ambitions, and attempts to save a kingdom.
4. Unity: Preserves the unities of time, place, and action as originated in Greek theater.
5. Character Flaws: The protagonist's downfall is often due to a tragic flaw.

Modern Tragedy
1. Protagonist: Focuses on ordinary people with realistic problems.
2. Time Span: Features more realistic time spans, including breaks and flashbacks.
3. Story: Centers on everyday individuals experiencing personal downfalls.
4. Unity: Redefines the genre with realistic timelines, settings, and multiple plots.
5. Character Flaws: Often showcases human internal struggles and socio-political issues.

Plot
Classical tragedies often followed a linear plot structure, beginning with a situation of stability,
escalating through a series of events driven by the protagonist's fatal flaw or external fate, and

15 Hayfaa A Ahmed, Classical Tragedy and Modern Tragedy: Difference and Similarity, 2022.
16 Ahmed.

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culminating in a moment of intense suffering or downfall. The resolution often provided a sense
of closure, frequently through the protagonist's demise or recognition of their error, leading to
a restoration of order or a lesson learned.

In contrast, modern tragedies tend to feature more complex and nonlinear plotlines. They
might involve multiple perspectives, interwoven storylines, or fragmented narratives that don't
strictly adhere to a linear progression. Modern tragedies often explore various societal issues,
personal struggles, or psychological conflicts, showcasing a wider array of characters and
motivations. The resolutions in modern tragedies might not offer clear closure or a restoration
of order, leaving room for ambiguity and introspection.

In summarize, classical tragedies, originating from ancient Greek drama, were

characterized by their adherence to formal structures, such as the three unities (time, place,
action) and the use of a chorus. They often revolved around the downfall of a noble character
due to a tragic flaw (hamartia) or fate, exploring themes like the conflict between mortals and
gods, honor, and destiny.

In contrast, modern tragedies, influenced by various cultural shifts and literary movements,
tend to deviate from these strict structures. They often explore more diverse and relatable
themes, such as the complexities of human psychology, societal issues, and the
consequences of personal choices. Modern tragedies might lack the use of a chorus or rigid
adherence to unities, and they frequently portray characters from various social classes, not
just nobility or royalty.

Additionally, classical tragedies often featured supernatural elements or divine intervention,

while modern tragedies tend to focus more on realistic circumstances and human experiences.
Moreover, classical tragedies aimed for the emotional catharsis of the audience, while modern
tragedies often provoke deeper introspection or social commentary.

i. Examples of Modern Tragedy

Raymond Williams, a cultural critic, stated, "Modern tragedy is a form that reflects the
conflicts arising from contemporary social and political structures. It often emphasizes the
struggles of ordinary individuals within complex and changing societies, focusing on their
internal dilemmas and societal pressures leading to their downfall."17

17 Raymond Williams, Modern Tragedy, ed. by Pamela McCallum, I (Canada: Broadview Publisher Ltd.,
1966).

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 Certainly, here are a few examples of modern tragedies:
1. "Death of a Salesman" by Arthur Miller (1949)
This play explores the tragic life of Willy Loman, a salesman whose dreams of success and
fulfillment crumble, revealing the harsh realities of the American Dream.

2. "Long Day's Journey Into Night" by Eugene O'Neill (1956)

O'Neill's masterpiece delves into the dysfunctional Tyrone family, grappling with addiction,
illness, and unresolved family conflicts over the course of a single day.

3. "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" by Edward Albee (1962)

This play examines the disintegration of the marriage between George and Martha, exposing
the illusions, disappointments, and bitterness underlying their relationship.

4. "The Glass Menagerie" by Tennessee Williams (1944)

This semi-autobiographical play explores the struggles of the Wingfield family, particularly
focusing on the challenges faced by the fragile and dreamy Laura.

5. "A Streetcar Named Desire" by Tennessee Williams (1947)

The tragic story of Blanche DuBois, a woman grappling with mental instability, societal
expectations, and her own troubled past, unfolds in the vibrant but harsh setting of New
Orleans.

6. "Hamlet" by William Shakespeare (adaptations and reinterpretations)

While traditionally a classical tragedy, modern adaptations and reinterpretations of "Hamlet"
often emphasize existential themes, psychological depth, and the complex inner struggles of
the protagonist.

7. "Angels in America" by Tony Kushner (1991)

This two-part play deals with the impact of the AIDS epidemic on a group of interconnected
characters, exploring themes of identity, love, and the search for meaning.

8. "The Road" by Cormac McCarthy (2006)

While a novel rather than a play, "The Road" is a modern tragedy that follows a father and
son's journey through a post-apocalyptic world, exploring themes of survival, despair, and the
human spirit.

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These examples illustrate the diversity of modern tragedies, both in terms of themes and
mediums (plays, novels, etc.). They often delve into the complexities of human existence,
presenting stories of individuals facing profound challenges and inevitable, often tragic,
outcomes.

Examples of modern tragedies from the 21st century:

1. "No Country for Old Men" by Cormac McCarthy (Novel, 2005)
This novel explores the consequences of a drug deal gone wrong, presenting a bleak and
violent portrayal of human nature.

2. "Manchester by the Sea" (Film, 2016)

The film follows the life of a man grappling with personal tragedy and guilt, showcasing the
enduring impact of loss on individuals and families.

3. "The Road" by Cormac McCarthy (Novel, 2006)

Set in a post-apocalyptic world, this novel follows a father and son's journey for survival,
highlighting themes of despair, hopelessness, and the struggle for meaning.

4. "Black Mirror: "Shut Up and Dance" (TV Series, 2016)

This episode explores the tragic consequences of online manipulation and surveillance,
revealing the devastating impact on the lives of ordinary individuals.

5. "Atonement" by Ian McEwan (Film adaptation, 2007)

Adapted from the novel, the film portrays the tragic consequences of a false accusation and
its ripple effects on the lives of the characters involved.

6. "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini (Novel, 2003)

This novel explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the long-lasting impact of personal and
political tragedies in Afghanistan.

7. "Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)" (Film, 2014)

The film delves into the personal and professional struggles of a former superhero actor,
exploring themes of identity, ego, and the pursuit of artistic validation.

8. "Inside Out" (Animated Film, 2015)

While primarily a children's film, "Inside Out" addresses themes of loss, change, and emotional
struggle, presenting a nuanced exploration of tragedy in the context of growing up.

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 These examples demonstrate how modern tragedies continue to explore diverse themes
and narratives, reflecting the complexities of contemporary life and human experiences in the
21st century.

j. Examples Implementation of Modern Tragedy in Drama/Movies

James Moran, a scholar in film and literature, states, "Modern tragedy is a narrative that
challenges traditional tragic conventions by incorporating elements of contemporary society.
It often portrays flawed characters in a world where societal structures, technology, or cultural
shifts contribute to their downfall, exploring themes of alienation, disconnection, or moral
ambiguity in the modern era."18

Examples of movies that implement modern tragedy:

1. Bumi Manusia
"Bumi Manusia" is an Indonesian film released in 2019, adapted from a renowned novel
by Pramoedya Ananta Toer. Directed by Hanung Bramantyo, it's part of the Pramoedya
Ananta Toer tetralogy known as the "Buru Quartet."

Explanation of "Bumi Manusia" as a modern tragedy can be seen through several story
elements and themes:
1. Historical Background
The film is set against the backdrop of Dutch colonialism in Indonesia during the early 20th
century, creating a stage for modern tragedy amidst the struggle for independence and
oppression.

2. Social Class Conflict

"Bumi Manusia" depicts social conflict and injustice within colonial society. The relationship
between Minke, a priyayi (Javanese nobleman), and Annelies, a Dutch girl, reflects the
tensions and social class differences that ultimately contribute to the tragedy involving the
main characters.

3. Romantic Aspect and Tragedy of Love

The love story between Minke and Annelies is marred by disapproval from various sides,
including Minke's family. This conflict not only creates personal tragic moments but also
mirrors cultural and societal class differences.

18 Moran.

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 4. Political and Personal Manipulation
Portrayals of political and personal manipulation by the Dutch colonial government become
an integral part of the plot. Political decisions and specific actions lead to tragic consequences
for the main characters and society at large.

5. Sorrow and Loss

Modern tragedies often encompass themes of sorrow and loss. "Bumi Manusia" not only
presents situations of loss in love but also loss in the struggle for independence and the hope
for a better change.

By combining these elements, "Bumi Manusia" can be considered a modern tragedy

reflecting the complexity and challenges of life during that period, as well as the individual and
collective struggle for justice and freedom.

2. Dilan "1990"
"Dilan 1990" is an Indonesian film adapted from a novel of the same title by Pidi Baiq.
Directed by Fajar Bustomi and Pidi Baiq himself, the film, released in 2018, although often
considered a romantic film, contains elements within the story that can be interpreted as
modern tragedy, especially in the dynamics of the relationship between the main characters,
Dilan and Milea.

1. Dilan's Character as a Tragic Hero

Dilan is portrayed as a romantic hero with strength and valor in protecting and loving Milea.
However, his stubbornness and disobedience to social norms bring tragic consequences,
especially regarding his involvement in conflict and physical fights.

2. Conflict Between Love and Obligation

The relationship between Dilan and Milea is complicated by the conflict between their love
and social and familial obligations. Milea faces a dilemma between loving Dilan and complying
with social norms that prioritize safety and stability.

3. Family Dynamics and Friendships

Family and friends play significant roles in creating tragic dynamics. Tension exists between
Milea's family, wanting to protect their daughter, and Dilan's desire for an unrestricted
relationship, leading to disharmony that ultimately results in tragedy.

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 4. Loss and Separation
Modern tragedies often involve themes of loss and separation. Although "Dilan 1990"
concludes with more emotional rather than physical loss, the separation between Dilan and
Milea creates a tragic undertone in the story's end.

5. Reflection of Contemporary Teen Life

The film also reflects modern tragedy within the lives of contemporary Indonesian
teenagers, depicting conflicts between older and younger generations and societal pressures
that can influence the course of relationships.

While "Dilan 1990" may be better known as a romantic film, these elements of modern
tragedy can be found within the complexity of relationships and social conflicts faced by its
characters.

CONCLUSION

The provided material offers a comprehensive overview of modern tragedy, emphasizing

its evolution to encompass a diverse range of themes and styles, including existential, political,
domestic, psychological, postmodern, environmental, and social tragedies. It highlights the
principles and components of modern tragedy, such as complex characters, everyday
settings, absence of divine intervention, realism and relevance, psychological depth,
ambiguity and irony, social and political commentary, nonlinear narrative, tension between
individual and society, and moral ambiguity. The subject of modern tragedy is drawn from
contemporary daily life, and the components of modern tragedy include complex protagonists,
everyday settings, moral ambiguity, social critique, existential themes, psychological depth,
nonlinear narratives, and individual alienation.

Modern tragedy combines elements of classical tragedy with contemporary contexts and
themes. It often features contemporary characters and settings, psychological complexity,
moral ambiguity, social and political critique, uncertain resolution, and the utilization of modern
techniques. Modern tragedies differ from classical tragedies in terms of protagonist, time span,
story, unity, and character flaws. They also have more complex and nonlinear plotlines.
Examples of modern tragedies include "Death of a Salesman," "Long Day's Journey Into
Night," "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?," "The Glass Menagerie," and "A Streetcar Named
Desire." Modern tragedies continue to explore diverse themes and narratives, reflecting the
complexities of contemporary life and human experiences in the 21st century. Examples of
modern tragedies in film include "Bumi Manusia" and "Dilan 1990."

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 In conclusion, the material provides a comprehensive understanding of modern tragedy,
highlighting its evolution, principles, components, and differences from classical tragedy. It
emphasizes the genre's ability to reflect the complexities of contemporary life, offering diverse
narratives and themes relevant to the modern human experience. The examples cited from
literature and film further illustrate the diverse nature of modern tragedies, showcasing their
continued relevance and impact in portraying the complexities of contemporary society.

REFRENCES

Ada Chidi-Igbokwe, MaryIsabella, The Concept and Characteristics of Classical, Renaissance

and Modern Tragedies, European Journal of English Language and Literature Studies,
2022, X <https://www.eajournals.org/>
Ahmed, Hayfaa A, Classical Tragedy and Modern Tragedy: Difference and Similarity, 2022
Aristotle, Poetics, ed. by Joe Sachs (Focus Publishing, 2006)
Babcock, Kimberly John, ‘Modern Dramatic Tragedy and Aristotle’s Poetics: A Comparison’,
Dissertations, Thesis, and Master Projects , 1987 <https://doi.org/10.21220/s2-wdc6-
xk68>
Moran, James, Modern Tragedy, I (Blomsbury Publisher, 2022)
Noyes, ‘Aristotle and Modern Tragedy’, Modern Language Notes, xiii.I (1898), 12
Williams, Raymond, Modern Tragedy, ed. by Pamela McCallum, I (Canada: Broadview
Publisher Ltd., 1966)

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