Elements of A Tragic Hero

Question 1

What characteristics does a tragic hero have?

Answer 1

• noble stature and has greatness (must be readily evident)

- high status position, but also embody nobility and virtue as part of their innate character

Question 2

Is the tragic hero perfect? (3)

Answer 2

• they are great, but they are not perfect
• otherwise, others would be unable to identify with the tragic hero
• we see them as someone like us, but elevated to a higher position in society

Question 3

Who is at fault for the tragic hero‘s downfall? (3)

Answer 3

• partially their own fault
• The result of their free choice, not of accident or villainy or some overriding, malignant fate
• The tragedy is usually triggered by some error of judgement or some character flaw that contributes to the hero’s lack of perfection

Question 4

What is hamartia? (3)

Answer 4

• The Greek word for error or failure
• designates the false step that leaves the protagonist in a tragedy to their downfall
• The hero’s error of judgement or character flaw

Question 5

What is hubris? (3)

Answer 5

• insoles or affront
• Applied to the arrogance or pride of the protagonist where they defie moral laws or prohibitions of the gods
• hamartia often involves hubris

Question 6

Is the hero’s misfortune deserved?

Answer 6

• their misfortune is not wholly deserved

- punishment exceeds the crime

Question 7

Is there a pro to their downfall? (4)

Answer 7

• it’s not purely a loss
• some increase in awareness
• some gain in self-knowledge
• song discovery on the part of the tragic hero