Greek tragedy conventions and Aristotelian TRAGEDIES Flashcards
What are the conventions for the hero/protagonist in Aristotelian tragedies?
The protagonist is usually a noble or high-status character (e.g., kings, princes, or warriors).
They possess a tragic flaw (hamartia) that leads to their downfall (e.g., hubris or excessive pride).
The hero is meant to be relatable in their nobility, making their fall more dramatic and impactful for the audience.
What are the conventions for the hero/protagonist in Modern tragedies?
The protagonist can be ordinary or low-status — for example, a common man, a family member, or someone without a noble position.
They are often flawed in more psychological or existential ways, facing issues like mental illness, alienation, or societal pressures.
The tragic hero is still deeply flawed, but modern tragedies emphasize their humanity rather than their nobility.
In Aristotelian tragedies, what is the role of fate and freewill?
In Aristotelian tragedy, fate plays a dominant role. The hero is often unable to escape their destiny (the downfall is often inevitable).
The tragic flaw or hubris leads the hero to defy or ignore fate, ultimately causing their downfall.
In Modern tragedies, what is the role of fate and freewill?
Modern tragedies often focus on individual choice and free will, with the protagonist’s downfall being caused by their own decisions or external social pressures, not fate or the gods.
Modern tragedies typically portray a more complex world where fate is replaced by human failings, societal expectations, or the flaws of the modern world.
In A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams, Blanche’s downfall is largely due to her own actions, including her denial of reality and relationships with men. There’s no external fate dictating her fall — it’s driven by her mental state and personal decisions.
Structure of Aristotelian tragedies -
Aristotelian Tragedy:
Aristotelian tragedy follows a clear and structured plot, often divided into five parts:
Exposition (introduces the hero and their status)
Rising action (conflict begins to unfold)
Climax (the turning point)
Falling action (the consequences of the hero’s actions)
Catastrophe (the final, tragic outcome)
The hero’s fall is often tied to a single, definitive action that triggers their downfall (the reversal of fortune or peripeteia).
structure of modern tragedies -
Modern tragedies are often less structured or non-linear. They may have a fragmented or disjointed narrative where the tragic ending isn’t always as clear-cut or inevitable as in Aristotelian tragedy.
Modern tragedies often emphasize psychological development and interpersonal conflicts, rather than strictly following a defined sequence of events.
according to Aristotle, what are the Thee Unities?
The Three Unities are:
Unity of Action: The play should focus on one main plot or action. There should be no subplots or distractions from the main event. Everything in the play should be connected to the protagonist’s journey and downfall.
Unity of Time: The events of the play should take place within a 24-hour period. This was meant to maintain the intensity of the tragedy and make the action feel more immediate and inevitable.
Unity of Place: The play should take place in one location or setting. This was done to maintain unity and keep the audience focused on the unfolding action rather than distracting settings or locations.
What is the role of catharsis in Aristotelian tragedies, and modern tragedies?
Aristotelian Tragedy:
Catharsis (the purging of emotions such as pity and fear) is an important aspect of Aristotelian tragedy. The audience experiences a release of emotions as they witness the tragic hero’s downfall, which brings a sense of emotional closure.
Modern Tragedy:
Modern tragedies may not provide the same emotional purging as in Aristotelian tragedy. Often, the tragedy is less about emotional release and more about reflecting on human struggle or the flaws in society. The audience might be left with questions about fate, morality, or the human condition.
