The Tragic Hero/Protagonist

A character of noble stature and has greatness. 

Occupies a "high" status position.

Embodies nobility and virtue as part of his/her innate character.

The Tragic Hero/Protagonist

Great in character and status, but not perfect. 

Regular people can still identify with the tragic hero. 

We should see in him or her someone who is essentially like us, although perhaps elevated to a higher position in society.

Downfall of the protagonist

Partially her/his own fault. The result of free choice, not

of accident or villainy or some overriding, malignant fate. 

Usually triggered by some error of judgment or some character flaw.  

What leads to the tragedy? Hamartia – error of judgment or

character flaw, the tragic flaw Hubris – excessive pride,

arrogance, or over-confidence

The hubris that comprises the character’s greatness also causes the character’s downfall.

The downfall of the protagonist

The hero's misfortunate is not wholly deserved.

The punishment exceeds the crime.

A protagonist does learn a lesson.

The fall is not pure loss. There is some increase in awareness, some gain in self-knowledge, some discovery on the part of the tragic hero.

Catharsis – release of emotions Tragedy does not leave its

audience in a state of depression.  By arousing the "unhealthy"

emotions of pity and fear, tragedy cleanses us of those emotions.  

Greek drama was not considered "entertainment," pure and simple.

Its function was to contribute to the good health of the community.