15 Questions
What does the term 'tragedy' originally mean?
Goat-song
According to Aristotle, what is the protagonist of a tragedy in literature?
Noble hero
What characteristic does a tragic character not need according to Aristotle?
Purely good qualities
How does Aristotle describe the plot in a tragedy drama?
Complete
What feeling does the tragedy aim to create in the audience, according to Aristotle?
Catharsis
How does a tragedy differ from comedy in terms of handling serious matters?
Serious matters are treated farcically in tragedy.
In real life, how is the term 'tragedy' commonly used compared to its use in drama?
'Tragedy' describes unfortunate events in real life.
What is a key characteristic of a tragedy's effect on a tragic hero?
Striking at the core of the hero's life
Why must a tragic hero have something to lose in a tragedy?
To make the fall impactful
What is the significance of the term 'catharsis' in relation to ancient Greek tragedies?
An emotional release for the audience in witnessing the downfall of a hero
Why did ancient Greeks believe that watching tragedies was beneficial for society?
To allow for an emotional cleanse and better functioning within society
What distinguishes a tragedy from a comedy in terms of their endings?
'Tragedies end unhappily, often with the death of the hero
Why is Oedipus considered a tragic hero in 'Oedipus Rex'?
'He commits heinous crimes due to his hubris and ignorance
'Hamlet' is considered one of the greatest tragedies due to which key element?
'The hero's investigation leading to his downfall and further destruction
'What makes modern tragic heroes different from those in ancient Greek tragedies?
'They are often middle-class individuals rather than political elite
Explore the definition of tragedy in literature, its characteristics, and its historical origins, dating back to the 5th century BCE. Learn about how early tragedies were perceived as solemn events similar to religious ceremonies and how tragic plays were based on older narratives. Discover the origins of the term 'tragedy' from the Greek words meaning 'goat-song'.
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