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March 13, 2012 Journal 14:. Think of a public figure ( actor, politician, etc ) who has made a career-ending mistake and describe the situation . What was the major factor in this person’s downfall ? How did it contribute to his/her downfall?. Tragedy and The Tragic Hero.
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March 13, 2012Journal 14: • Think of a public figure (actor, politician, etc) who has made a career-ending mistake and describe the situation. • What was the major factor in this person’s downfall? How did it contribute to his/her downfall?
A General Definition of Tragedy • Any serious and dignified drama that describes a conflict between the hero (protagonist) and a superior force (antagonist) • Reaches a sorrowful conclusion that arouses pity or fear in the audience (catharsis) • In general, tragedy death
Aristotle’s Poetics: Basic Concepts • Complex plots are better than simple ones. • Suffering is to be included in a tragic plot, which should end unhappily. • The pity and fear evoked by the tragedy should come from the events, not from the mere sight of something on stage.
Characteristics of the Tragic Hero. The Character… • Is not all good or bad • Is of the noble class or highly renowned and prosperous • Has a tragic flaw • Recognizes his error and accepts the consequences • Arouses the audience’s pity and fear
The downfall of a tragic hero (TH)follows a series of steps: • Step 1 – Identification of the “high estate” of the TH • Step 2 – There is a sense of urgency (time intrusion) • Step 3 – A tragic flaw in character is demonstrated • Step 4 – Misreading/rationalization on the TH’s part
More steps to the downfall of the TH • Step 5 – Murder, exile, alienation of enemies/allies • Step 6 – Gradual isolation of the TH (in or out) • Step 7 – Mobilization of those who oppose the TH • Step 8 – Recognition of tragic flaw, but too late
Even more steps to the downfall…. • Step 9 – Last attempt to restore greatness • Step 10 – Audience sees potential for greatness • Step 11 – Death/destruction of the TH (in or out) • Step 12 – Restoration of order to bring normalcy
Questions to Ponder: • In what ways do you journal entry examples fit this criteria of a tragic hero? • How does having present-day examples help your understanding? • Please turn to a partner to discuss and be prepared to share.