Megalopsychia Tragedy Definition Quiz & Flashcards

Study Notes

Key Terminology in Tragedy

Megalopsychia: Refers to the concept of "greatness of soul," often associated with noble characters in tragic literature.
Peripeteia: Represents the dramatic turning point where a character experiences a fall from high to low status, marking a shift in their fortune.
Hamartia: Denotes the character's downfall or error in judgment, which leads to the tragedy's unfolding events.
Hubris: Describes excessive pride or arrogance, commonly found in tragic heroes that propels them towards their fate.

Character Archetypes

Anagnorisis: The moment of recognition or self-awareness when a character acknowledges their wrongdoing or their situation.
Catharsis: A critical element of tragedy, describing the emotional release or purging experienced by the audience in response to the unfolding drama.
Tragic Hero: The central character typically portrayed as a victim of fate; examples include Othello from Shakespeare and Willy Loman from Miller's "Death of a Salesman."
Tragic Villain: A character representing opposition to the hero or protagonist, such as Iago from "Othello," often manipulative and malevolent.

Additional Concepts

Tragic Victim: Refers to characters who suffer due to the actions of the tragic hero, like Desdemona in "Othello," illustrating the collateral damage of tragedy.
Truth Teller: Represents a character who reveals truth and opposes villainous deeds; in "Othello," this role is embodied by Emilia, who contrasts the villain's deceptions.
Fate: A core theme in tragedy, serving as the force that leads to the inevitable decline or demise of the characters involved.
Wheel of Fortune: Symbolizes the ever-turning wheel of fate that dictates the ups and downs of the characters' lives, reflecting the randomness of fortune.
Myopia: Represents a metaphorical "blindness" in characters, often referring to their inability to see the reality of their circumstances or the consequences of their actions.
Pathos: The quality that evokes feelings of pity and sorrow within the audience, a fundamental element that enhances the emotional experience of a tragedy.

Description

Explore key terms associated with tragedy in English literature through flashcards. Understand essential concepts such as hubris, peripeteia, and catharsis to enhance your knowledge of tragic narratives. Perfect for literature students and enthusiasts alike!