1. Tragedy: (Aristotle “Poetics”) A representation of serious actions that turn out disastrously for the main character or characters, usually presented in poetic, dramatic form.

2. 1. Tragedy arouses pity and fear in an audience through association with the tragic character(s) 2. It results in a catharsis for the reader/viewer of the story. Catharsis: A purifying or figurative cleansing of the emotions, especially pity and fear, described by Aristotle as an effect of tragic drama on its audience; a release of emotional tension, as after an overwhelming experience, that restores or refreshes the spirit.

3. The Tragic Hero 1. Character with a mixture of good and bad personality traits 2. Usually has one major or “ tragic” flaw. * Tragic Flaw: traditionally a defect in a hero which leads to their downfall (Greek: Hamartia) 3. Usually exhibits hubris, or excessive pride (arrogance, etc.) that causes the hero to ignore a divine warning or to break a moral law

4. The Tragic Hero