tragedy英文名词解释(一)

tragedy英文名词解释(一)

tragedy英文名词解释

1. Definition

• Tragedy is a genre of literature, drama, and film that

focuses on the sorrowful or disastrous events faced by

the main characters, leading to their ultimate downfall

or destruction.

2. Types of Tragedy

There are several types of tragedy, each with its

distinctive characteristics:

i. Classical Tragedy

• Classical tragedy refers to the tragic plays written by

ancient Greek and Roman playwrights, such as Sophocles

and Euripides. These plays typically feature a

protagonist with a fatal flaw (hamartia) that leads to

their downfall. Examples include Sophocles’ “Oedipus

Rex” and Euripides’ “Medea.”

ii. Shakespearean Tragedy

• Shakespearean tragedy refers to the tragic plays written

by William Shakespeare. These plays involve characters

of high social status, intense emotions, and fate that

contributes to their tragic ending. Examples include

“Hamlet,” “Macbeth,” and “Romeo and Juliet.”

iii. Modern Tragedy

• Modern tragedy encompasses tragic works written in more

recent times, often exploring societal or existential

themes. These plays may not follow the traditional

structure of classical or Shakespearean tragedy.

Examples include Arthur Miller’s “Death of a Salesman”

and Tennessee Williams’ “A Streetcar Named Desire.”

3. Elements of Tragedy

Tragedies typically incorporate certain key elements that

contribute to their tragic nature:

i. Tragic Hero/Heroine

• The tragic hero/heroine is the central character in a

tragedy who possesses admirable qualities but has a

fatal flaw or commits a significant mistake. This flaw

or mistake ultimately leads to their downfall. For

example, Macbeth’s ambition in Shakespeare’s play

leads to his tragic end.

ii. Conflict

• Tragedies often involve a conflict between the

protagonist and external forces, such as society, fate,

or antagonists. This conflict intensifies the tragic

events and adds tension to the plot. In “Hamlet,” the

conflict between Hamlet and his uncle, who killed his

father, drives the tragic narrative.

iii. Catharsis

• Catharsis refers to the emotional release or purging

experienced by the audience while witnessing the tragic

events unfold. Tragedies aim to evoke strong emotions,

such as pity and fear, in the audience, providing them

with a sense of emotional relief or insight.

Shakespeare’s “King Lear” elicits catharsis through

the tragic consequences of King Lear’s actions.

4. Conclusion

Tragedy is a powerful genre that delves into the human

capacity for suffering and the consequences of flawed choices.

Whether it’s the ancient Greek plays, Shakespearean

tragedies, or modern works, tragedies continue to captivate

and move audiences, leaving a lasting impact.