Tragic Hero Done by: Nourh I.Al- Ashi

What is a tragic hero?

Aristotle: "A man cannot become a hero until he can see the root of his own downfall."

It should be noted that the hero's downfall is his own fault as a result of his own free choice, but his misfortune is not wholly deserved. Usually his death is seen as a waste of human potential. His death usually is not a pure loss, because it results in greater knowledge and awareness.

Four major criteria for a Tragic Hero: Is flawed character with some goodness but suffers a downfall due to a tragic flaw. This tragic flaw is typically hubris or excessive pride carried to the point of folly. Is usually the protagonist of the play. Is of noble birth and/or exhibits wisdom. Suffers a reversal of fortune brought on by his tragic flaw/error in judgment.

Other qualities of the Tragic Hero: His story should arouse fear and pity from the audience. Ideally, he is a leader of men. He suffers more than what we think he might deserve. The character is normally good and nearly perfect except for the tragic flaw. He discovers his fate or outcome has been brought about his own actions.

Shakespeare's Tragic Hero: There are moral consequences as a result of the tragic hero's actions. Suffers a significant character flaw. The tragic hero chooses his outcome, he is not a helpless victim of fate or circumstance.

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