Tragedy

Question 1

What is tragedy? (4 points)

Answer 1

A genre that focuses on a noble character who struggles against strong external challenges

This character will usually suffer greatly and fail as a result of their own flaws

Plot follows a gradual descent from greatness to destruction

Important that the hero ends up isolated from all of his friends and companions - we feel pathos for them

Question 2

What is the function of a tragedy? (3 points)

Answer 2

Used to explore how actions, choices, mental states, and external forces can harm the human psyche, causing suffering that extends beyond oneself ​

This shared experience of suffering fosters empathy among us, offering comfort and a sense of connection

While real-life suffering is hard to witness, in fiction, it can be transformative:
+ Reveals the depth of pain
+ Provides cautionary lessons
+ Demonstrates natural consequences

Question 3

What is Aristotle’s idea of catharsis? (3 points)

Answer 3

Aristotle argued that tragedies give us a feeling of catharsis or the release of pent-up emotions

As we go through life, we store up negative emotions

Aristotle believed that a good tragedy was a productive, safe way to release those negative emotions

Question 4

What are the 5 elements of tragedy?

Answer 4

Hubris
Hamartia
Pathos
Anagnorisis
Peripeteia

Question 5

Define ‘hubris’.

Answer 5

An extreme and unreasonable feeling of pride and confidence in yourself

Question 6

Define ‘hamartia’.

Answer 6

A hero’s tragic flaw; the aspect of the character which ultimately leads to their downfall

Question 7

Define ‘pathos’.

Answer 7

A quality that evokes pity or sadness

Question 8

Define ‘anagnorisis’.

Answer 8

The point in the plot where the protagonist recognizes their or some other character’s true identity or discovers the true nature of their own situation

Question 9

Define ‘peripeteia’.

Answer 9

A sudden reversal of fortune or change in circumstances