Tragedy Key Words

Question 1

Tragic Hero

Answer 1

A main character with a fatal flaw (hamartia) whose downfall evokes pity and fear.

Question 2

Hamartia

Answer 2

The tragic hero’s fatal flaw or error in judgment causes their downfall.

Question 3

Hubris

Answer 3

Excessive pride or arrogance that leads the tragic hero to ignore warnings or limits.

Question 4

Anagnorisis

Answer 4

The moment of recognition or insight when the tragic hero realises the truth.

Question 5

Catharsis

Answer 5

The emotional release felt by the audience after the tragic events.

Question 6

Antagonist / Villain

Answer 6

A character who opposes the hero and drives conflict, often causing the hero’s downfall.

Question 7

Fate / Inevitability

Answer 7

The idea that the hero’s downfall is preordained and cannot be avoided.

Question 8

Public vs Domestic Setting

Answer 8

Tragedies can be set in public (royal, political) or domestic (ordinary life) worlds.

Question 9

Climax

Answer 9

The turning point in the plot, where tension peaks and disaster becomes inevitable.

Question 10

Comic Relief

Answer 10

Humorous moments, which provide relief from the tension of the tragedy.

Question 10

Catastrophe

Answer 10

The final disaster or death that concludes the tragedy.

Question 11

Dramatic Irony

Answer 11

When the audience knows something the characters do not, increasing tension.

Question 12

Moral Ambiguity

Answer 12

When it’s unclear who is right or wrong, adding complexity to characters and themes.

Question 13

Suffering

Answer 13

Physical or emotional pain experienced by the hero, often evoking audience sympathy.