APEX: English 9 - Tragic Hero Overview

Questions and Answers

Which of the following characters is the best example of a tragic hero?

A vain king who values appearance over truth (correct)

A hero who is too humble

An ambitious prince who fails to save his family (correct)

A villainous character who succeeds

Which situation is the best example of a hero's inner conflict?

A queen deciding to trust her husband or father (correct)

A hero leaving his hometown

A soldier doubting his mission

A king deciding whether to kill his opponents for power (correct)

Why has the physical description of the hero changed throughout the years?

To reflect how a specific time and culture view heroism

Which character is the best example of a tragic hero?

A rich businessman who loses everything Signup and view all the answers

What is the best example of a tragic flaw?

Macbeth's desire for power Signup and view all the answers

What common character trait do tragic heroes share?

They have a flaw that will ultimately lead to their undoing. Signup and view all the answers

Which element of a tragic hero does Macbeth possess?

He has a tragic flaw that leads to his downfall. Signup and view all the answers

Which plot description is the best example of a tragedy?

An arrogant businessman losing everything after a failed auto company Signup and view all the answers

Which situation is the best example of dramatic irony?

The reader knows that a teacher's new student is actually his long-lost sister. Signup and view all the answers

Which event is an example of irony in Macbeth?

Macbeth has been crowned king but feels empty and worthless due to his actions. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Tragic Heroes and Inner Conflicts

A tragic hero often experiences a downfall due to their ambition, such as a prince who seeks power but loses everything.
Another example includes a vain king who prioritizes appearance, leading to losing his throne and life because of misplaced loyalty tests.
Inner conflict is central; for instance, a king battles with ambitions to eliminate rivals, revealing the destructive nature of unchecked desire.

Evolution of Heroic Depictions

The portrayal of heroes has evolved to mirror changing societal values, reflecting contemporary views on heroism and what is admired in different cultures.

Traits and Flaws of Tragic Heroes

Characteristics like ambition or vanity often serve as tragic flaws, leading to downfall; notable example is Macbeth's overpowering desire for power.
Tragic heroes universally possess flaws that precipitate their demise, establishing a crucial narrative element in tragedies.

Instances of Tragedy and Irony

A poignant tragedy may involve a businessman who loses everything due to reckless ambition and operational failures within his company.
Dramatic irony occurs when the audience is aware of hidden truths, such as a teacher's new student being his lost sibling, unbeknownst to him until the climax.
Irony is evident in Macbeth's ascent to kingship, which brings him no joy or fulfillment, showcasing the emptiness resulting from his morally compromised actions.

Description

This quiz focuses on understanding the concept of a tragic hero in literature, as explored in English 9, Semester 2. It includes flashcards that define characteristics and provide examples of tragic heroes. Perfect for students looking to grasp this critical literary concept.