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Questions and Answers

What is the primary characteristic of a tragedy in literature?

It deals with lighthearted and humorous events.

It is a fictional account of a trivial matter.

It focuses on the triumphs and successes of a heroic individual.

It handles sorrowful events involving a heroic individual. (correct)

What is the origin of the term 'tragedy' according to the text?

It was derived from the Latin word 'tragedus' meaning 'sorrowful tale'.

It comes from the Greek words 'tragos' meaning 'goat' and 'aeidein' meaning 'to sing'. (correct)

It was coined by Aristotle in his work 'Poetics'.

It originated from the ancient Greek festival of Dionysus.

According to Aristotle's definition, what is a crucial element of a tragic character?

The character must be purely evil.

The character must be a commoner or someone of low social status.

The character must be purely good.

The character must be neither purely evil nor purely good. (correct)

What is the primary purpose of a tragedy, according to the text?

To create a feeling of catharsis or relief in the audience. Signup and view all the answers

What is the structure of a tragedy, according to Aristotle's Poetics?

The plot is complete, and the tragic story is told in its entirety. Signup and view all the answers

What is the contrast between tragedy and comedy, as mentioned in the text?

Tragedy deals with sorrowful events, while comedy treats serious matters in a farcical manner. Signup and view all the answers

How does the structure of a tragedy differ from real-life tragedies, according to the text?

In drama, a tragedy refers to a particular type of narrative and structure, while in real life, it describes any unfortunate event. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a tragedy?

To examine the effects of misfortune or poor choices on a tragic hero Signup and view all the answers

What is a necessary characteristic of a tragic hero?

The hero must have a position of power, prestige, or love to lose Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial element that a tragic hero must possess?

A tragic flaw or frailty that contributes to their downfall Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of catharsis in a tragedy?

To purify and cleanse the emotions of the audience through witnessing the downfall Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between ancient Greek and modern tragedies?

The protagonist in modern tragedies is often a middle-class or relatable character Signup and view all the answers

What is Oedipus' tragic flaw in the play Oedipus Rex?

Hubris and a belief that he can cheat fate Signup and view all the answers

In the play Hamlet, what drives the titular character's actions and eventual downfall?

His desire to avenge his father's murder Signup and view all the answers

What is a common theme or outcome in tragedies?

The hero dies or experiences a significant downfall Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Characteristics of a Tragedy

The primary characteristic of a tragedy is its focus on evoking feelings of pity and fear in the audience.

Origin of the Term 'Tragedy'

The term 'tragedy' originates from the Greek word "tragedia," meaning "goat song."

Tragic Character

According to Aristotle's definition, a crucial element of a tragic character is hamartia, or a flaw in judgment or character that ultimately leads to their downfall.

Purpose of a Tragedy

The primary purpose of a tragedy is to evoke feelings of fear and pity in the audience, resulting in catharsis, or emotional purification.

Structure of a Tragedy

According to Aristotle's Poetics, the structure of a tragedy consists of a rising action, climax, and falling action, followed by a resolution and denouement.

Contrast between Tragedy and Comedy

Tragedy is characterized by a serious tone and unhappy ending, whereas comedy is characterized by a lighthearted tone and happy ending.

Structure of a Tragedy vs. Real-Life Tragedies

The structure of a tragedy differs from real-life tragedies in that it is carefully crafted to evoke a specific emotional response from the audience.

Function of a Tragedy

The primary function of a tragedy is to provide a form of emotional release or catharsis for the audience.

Tragic Hero

A necessary characteristic of a tragic hero is that they are of noble birth or high social status.
A crucial element that a tragic hero must possess is hamartia, or a flaw in judgment or character.

Catharsis

The purpose of catharsis in a tragedy is to provide a form of emotional release or purification for the audience.

Ancient Greek vs. Modern Tragedies

The primary difference between ancient Greek and modern tragedies is the degree of tragic resolution, with ancient Greek tragedies often featuring a more abrupt and severe conclusion.

Oedipus Rex

Oedipus' tragic flaw in the play Oedipus Rex is his hubris, or excessive pride.

Hamlet

Hamlet's actions and eventual downfall are driven by his indecision and conflicting emotions.

Common Theme or Outcome in Tragedies

A common theme or outcome in tragedies is that of the downfall of a great or noble individual due to their own flaws or circumstances.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the genre of tragedy in literature, characterized by serious handling of sorrowful events involving heroic individuals. Learn about the origins of tragedy in drama and its evolution over time.

Tragedy in Drama Quiz

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