Literary Devices -> tragedy

Tragedy Study Guide

Definition of Tragedy

A tragedy is a type of drama or literary work that presents serious and important events in which the main character comes to an unhappy ending. Tragedies often explore themes of human suffering, fate, and the consequences of actions.

Characteristics of Tragedy

• Tragic hero/heroine: The main character is typically a noble figure with a fatal flaw that leads to their downfall.
• Conflict and tension: Tragedies involve intense conflicts and tensions that drive the plot forward.
• Catharsis: Tragedies aim to evoke feelings of pity and fear in the audience, leading to a release of emotions known as catharsis.
• Unhappy ending: Tragedies conclude with the downfall or death of the main character, often as a result of their own actions.

Famous Tragedies

Some famous examples of tragedies in literature and drama include William Shakespeare's "Hamlet," Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex," and Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman."

Study Questions

1. What is the role of the tragic hero/heroine in a tragedy?
2. How does the concept of catharsis apply to the experience of watching or reading a tragedy?
3. What are some common themes found in tragedies?
4. Compare and contrast the endings of a tragedy and a comedy.

[Tragedy] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Literary GenresEnglish Language Arts • Second Grade