Tragedy

Classical Tragedy Its beginning was in Ancient Greece Over 2,000 years old Aristotle was the “Father of Greek Tragedy” Perhaps the oldest genre Highest form of drama

Characteristics of Tragic Hero Position of high estate A fall from prosperity to misery Basically good person Tragic flaw leads to destruction

Shakespearean tragedy and Classical tragedy are unlike in some ways.

Differences Shakespeare’s tragedies. . . Include subplots. Use Comic relief Lead up to and includes death of hero Proceed mainly from action of men

Shakespeare’s heroes have a particular obsession; a marked one-sidedness; a fatal tendency

Tragedy creates a catharsis or release of emotion in the audience.