Tragic Flaw and Hamartia Quiz

Key Literary Terms and Concepts

• The Greek word for 'insolence' or 'affront' related to tragedy is hubris, reflecting the excessive pride or arrogance of a protagonist that leads to their downfall.
• The narrative technique of beginning a story in the midst of the action is known as in medias res, engaging the audience right from the critical point of the plot.
• An aside is an extended speech delivered by a single character, either addressing others or speaking as if alone, often revealing personal thoughts or motives.
• Plot structure refers to the careful arrangement of incidents within a narrative to create a specific emotional or thematic impact.
• The term rising action describes the segment of a plot that builds tension and interest through a series of events leading to the climax or turning point.
• The setting encompasses the general locale, historical context, and social environment in which the events of a literary work take place, influencing character motivations and themes.
• A soliloquy is a dramatic speech made by a character who is alone on stage, allowing them to share their inner thoughts and emotions directly with the audience.
• Exposition refers to the introductory section of a literary work or a speech in a play that establishes background information and sets up the narrative.

Test your knowledge of tragic flaws and hamartia with this quiz. Explore the concepts of character flaws and errors through the works of Aristotle and their impact on protagonists in tragedies.