Tragic Hero and Tragic Flaw Tragic Hero Background

Tragic Hero and Tragic Flaw

Tragic Hero Background “A man cannot become a hero until he can see the root of his own downfall. ” -Aristotle

Characteristics of a Tragic Hero

Born of Noble Birth Typically a king or member of the royal family Someone that normal people would “look up to” or admire

Is Neither Completely Good Nor Completely Evil

Possesses a Fatal Flaw Traditional fatal flaw is hubris: overwhelming pride or confidence Other examples of fatal flaws: - Loyalty - Stubbornness - Love - Jealousy - Greed - Pride - Ambition - Perfectionism - Selfishness -Anger

Fate is controlled by tragic flaw Ultimate fate is a downfall, often death Downfall seems more impressive due to a fall from a noble position

Is physically or emotionally wounded by experiences May be injured, or may suffer losses of family or fortune

Suffers more than he deserves The character’s suffering usually contributes to theme or life lesson

Downfall brings pity or fear Audience feels pity for hero Audience realizes they, too, could be harmed by their own tragic flaw

Imperfect or “human” despite noble nature • Has outstanding quality or greatness, but audience must identify with him • Are YOU perfect? • Without imperfections, downfall would seem improbable or caused by fate only

Bears no responsibility for flaw, only for actions influenced by flaw • Actions result in an increase of self-awareness and self-knowledge • Fate is discovered by his own actions, not things happening to him • Downfall is a result of free choice