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Tragic Elements, 2005.
This paper compares the themes of tragedy that are present in both Shakespeare's "King Lear" and F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby."
2,250 words (approx. 9.0 pages), 3 sources, $ 89.95
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Abstract
This paper offers a comparison between the elements of tragedy of "King Lear" and "The Great Gatsby" and explores them from the perspective of tragedy as a literary genre. The paper's hypothesis presented is that the similarities found in F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby" are a result of the author's borrowing and expanding on the elements of tragedy from Shakespeare's "King Lear."
From the Paper
"In this essay, a comparison between the elements of tragedy of "King Lear" and "The Great Gatsby" will be explored from the perspective of tragedy as a literary genre. The hypothesis presented here is that the similarities found in F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby" are a result of the author's borrowing and expanding on the elements of tragedy from Shakespeare's "King Lear." "King Lear and "The Great Gatsby" are both similar tragedies of epic proportion even though the authors' divergent times and purpose threatens to overwhelm a common basis for comparison."
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Elements that Make a Dramatic Character Tragic, 2002.
A discussion concept of tragic hero as depicted in two dramas.
1,350 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 6 sources, $ 47.95
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Abstract
Discusses concept of tragic hero as depicted in two dramas. Sophocles' OEDIPUS REX & Arthur Millier's DEATH OF A SALESMAN. Also refers to Aristotle's definition of tragedy in his POETICS. Basic elements of tragedy. Consideration of Oedipus as best example of a tragic figure. How Willy Loman's ideals make him a tragic hero.
From the Paper
"The terms "tragedy" and "tragic" get used often in the media recently, especially after the attacks of September 11, 2001 on the World Trade Center in New York and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C.. These have become terms synonymous with "bad things" that have happened to "good people". Yet, there is still the question of what these words really mean, chiefly in regards to the world of drama and literature. Once defined, how do these words effect the notion of what consists of tragic elements in the story and what makes a character tragic.
Stagg (1994) has defined a tragedy as having two basic elements: 1) a hero with enough stature to make his or her suffering significant, and 2) a course of action by the hero that produces enlightenment to his or her situation. Aristotle, who was one of the first great philosophers to be recorded discussing..."
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Oedipus and Hamlet: Tragic Heroes, 2002.
This paper discusses the features of the tragic hero, comparing and contrasting between is Sophocles? "Oedipus Rex" and Shakespeare's "Hamlet".
1,325 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
The paper begins by looking at the differences between the classical tragic hero and the tragic hero of Shakespearian times. It then moves on to a closer examination of the characteristics of the tragic hero, as illustrated in is Sophocles? ?Oedipus Rex?. A brief outline of the plot is given and the paper explains how this work fits into the category of the mythological tale. The character flaws responsible for the tragic fall in the play are also discussed. Next the paper moves on to Shakespeare?s tragedy, ?Hamlet?, comparing it with the former tragedy in terms of evidence or lack of ?otherworldly forces? to spur on the tragedy and in terms of each plays philosophy concerning fate and free will. The paper concludes by explaining how both of these characters fit the mould of tragic hero.
From the Paper
"Understanding the Tragic Hero begins with an examination of Oedipus Rex. But, while he is the archetype of this particular literary character, Hamlet is, perhaps, the most well developed and psychologically complex of tragic heroes. For the Greeks, all things in life are preordained, which is what makes for the tragedy of Oedipus ? his attempt to make his own destiny. Over the course of time, however, while the form of the tragic hero did not change, the reason for his being tragic did. The social world of the Renaissance had shifted from a philosophy of determinism to one of individualism ? that we all have the choice to accept or deny our relationship with God. This makes Hamlet a tragic hero who is punished not for a flaunting of destiny, but because he is mad. It is the purpose of this paper to examine both Oedipus Rex and Hamlet as tragic heroes who, because of their different social contexts, made for very different men."
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The Tragic Hero in Literature, 2002.
An analysis of two literary works with the purpose of understanding the concept of the "tragic hero".
750 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 0 sources, $ 26.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses "Oedipus the King" by Sophocles and "Hamlet" by William Shakespeare in order to illustrate the tragic hero. The paper explains that a literary work must contain irony in its story, and the tragic hero must have a ?tragic flaw? in character (hamartia) that will ultimately become the catalyst for his downfall to materialize, making him the ?tragic hero? of the story.
From the Paper
"Another example of a tragedy is William Shakespeare?s literary work entitled, Hamlet. The story also evolves around the theme of finding out the truth, although the truth in this story revolves around the identity of King Hamlet?s (Hamlet?s father) murderer. Hamlet illustrates irony in Hamlet?s character, especially when he expresses wrath and anger when he found out that Claudius, his father?s brother and the new husband of Hamlet?s mother, is King Hamlet?s murderer. The lines in the story voiced out by Hamlet (?A villain kills my father, and for that/ I, his sole son, do this same villain send to heaven?/ When he is drunk asleep, or in his rage?/ At gaming, swearing, or about some act/ That has no relish of salvation in?t/ And that his soul may be as damned and black/ As hell whereto he goes?) illustrates his anger against Claudius and his murder, but these lines by Hamlet contradicted his previous actions of sparing Claudius death, just when Hamlet was about to kill him. "
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Yeats and Nietzsche on the Tragic Hero, 2005.
Comparison and contrast of W.B. Yeats and Friedrich Nietzsche on tragic joy and the use of the mask.
2,381 words (approx. 9.5 pages), 16 sources, MLA, $ 73.95
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Abstract
W. B. Yeats and philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche share certain attitudes about the tragic hero and tragic joy, but differ in the objectives a tragic hero or overman seeks. This paper shows that Yeats seeks a reconciliation of self and anti-self, while Nietzsche seeks drastic cultural changes for all.
From the Paper
"W. B. Yeats's concept of tragic joy is embodied in a tragic hero unreconciled with his condition in the modern world who acts as a protagonist superior to circumstances and accepts the "desolation of reality" ("Meru, Poems 289) with a disdain for death and an attitude of tragic joy. His attitude is roughly similar to the "amor fati" propounded by the German existentialist philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche. How to they compare?"
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The Tragic Hero in Modern Literature, 2002.
A discussion of tragic heroes in modern, American literature.
9,500 words (approx. 38.0 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 194.95
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Abstract
Today, people do not often see the unquestionable splendor of royalty, the unrelenting actions of the hand of fate, or the importance of human interactions. Does that mean that a tragic hero could not exist in the modern world? This paper reviews what a tragic hero is and illustrates this type of character with examples from "Oedipus Rex". Then, the heroes of "The Zoo Story", by Edward Allbee, "One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest", by Ken Kesey, "Death of a Salesman", by Arthur Miller, "The Catcher in the Rye", by J.D. Salinger, and the "Autobiography of Malcom X" are compared to the definition of a tragic hero. The paper concludes that modern society may not believe in crowns, robes and the hand of fate, but it believes in the ability to create revolution. It is in these revolutions that tragic heroes emerge.
From the Paper
"Modern society may not believe in crowns, robes, and the hand of fate, but it believes in the ability to create revolution. It is in these revolutions that tragic heroes emerge. The act of inciting revolution and change becomes noble. By unselfish actions, courage, and honor, these revolutionaries create a new class of nobility. This idea can be seen in society, and literature is imitating it, just like Aristotle said it should. While there are still many "phonies" in the world, the tragic hero has reemerged to put them in their place."
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The Tragic Greek Hero, 2006.
A look at the use of complexity by Greek tragedians to create a tragic hero.
1,955 words (approx. 7.8 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper explores the concept of the tragic hero in Greek tragedy. Topics covered include Aristotle's, Aeschylus' and Euripides' definition of a convincing tragic hero, the true meaning and ancient Greek roots of the word hamartia and how the chorus is also used to characterize the tragic hero. It also discusses why Creon and Antigone can both be considered the tragic hero in "Antigone".
From the Paper
"Aeschylus, who may be best known for introducing to Greek tragedy the second actor, first introduces us to Prometheus as a stoic hero. We quickly learn that Prometheus has come to his unfortunate situation through an act of daring and selflessness, and perhaps hubris. It is the latter of these qualities, which ultimately proves to be what prevents Prometheus from freedom. Prometheus Bound like many other tragedies preaches reverence for the almighty gods. Aeschylus encouraged the Athenians to strive to achieve the sort of behavior they witnessed on stage. This is why his tragedies contain sophisticated language as well as a powerful message. By this logic, the downfall of a tragic hero became a useful tool for displaying the adverse affects which arise when one does not act in accordance with the wishes of the gods. "
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Tragic Hero, 2007.
A description of the traits necessary for a literary character to be considered tragic.
1,336 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper applies several descriptions of tragic heroes to different literary characters throughout Western literature. The author first presents Aristotle's list of traits necessary for a tragic hero. Other views of a tragic hero are also presented and analyzed from within the context of the works in which they appear. Several writers views of tragic heroes are compared and contrasted.
From the Paper
"Arthur Miller was certainly aware of the nature of Greek tragedy and made a deliberate decision to use the structure of Greek drama as a basis for his play A View from the Bridge, as he had previously done for All My Sons. The central character, Eddie Carbone, fits well with the central figure in All My Sons and Death of a Salesman, being a family patriarch who has also been a complete failure as a father. He has no children of his own, so he looks after his wife's young niece. Over time, he has developed unconscious sexual feelings toward her, affecting everyone around him. Eddie is an ordinary man living among other ordinary men. The high-born nature of the traditional tragic hero is gone now, though Carbone can be seen as a middle-class version of a high-born hero because he is respected in his community and the head of his household. He is no closer to the gods than anyone else, however, though members of the Italian community have a religious background that colors much of their thinking about life."
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Creon: The Tragic Hero, 2008.
An analysis of Sophocles' character Creon, in "Antigone", as the tragic hero.
2,163 words (approx. 8.7 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 67.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how in "Antigone", Sophocles develops a dramatic work in which a protagonist is occupied in a morally important struggle, which results in ruin because of some extreme quality. In particular, the paper looks at how Creon, the king of Thebes, portrays both a judgment error and weakness in character. Using Aristotle's definition of a tragic hero, the paper further discusses how because of his social class, general goodness, and tragic flaw, Creon is the tragic hero and is deserving of sympathy after his mistakes take the lives of others.
From the Paper
"Creon's inability to accept the ideas of others is also justified during his argument with Antigone. Antigone claims that her act of burying her brother (Polynices) was honorable, but Creon exclaims, "You are wrong. None of my subjects thinks as you do," which is followed by Antigone's reply: "Yes, sir, they do; but dare not tell you so" (ll. 437-439). Again, the king is stubborn and near-sighted to realize that maybe there is a chance that Antigone is not the only one who believes her act was heroic, which is a fatal error in judgment. When Teiresias, a blind prophet, confronts Creon about his rule based on killing and self-will, the king demonstrates his tragic flaw: "Clever you may be, but not therefore honest" (l. 919). He understands that the prophet is correct and his son will die, but it is too late to change anything. "
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The Tragic Greek Hero, 2005.
This paper discusses the tragic hero in Greek mythology by comparing Sophocles' character Oedipus with other Greek heroes---Hercules, Odysseus and Achilles.
1,015 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 35.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that a tragic hero, which was created by the ancient Greeks and defined by the philosopher Aristotle, is a hero who is otherwise perfect except for a fatal flaw, that eventually results in his demise. The author points out that the typical tragic hero is a complex and well-developed character, as is Sophocles' "Oedipus the King ", who is a textbook tragic hero that draws out the three responses from the audience--attachment, fear and pity. The paper relates that Oedipus' demise is unlike the demise of other typical heroes, like Hercules or Odysseus, because Oedipus' story does not end with his death but rather with blindness and his expulsion from the human community.
From the Paper
"The complexity of Oedipus' "harmartia" is an important element of his heroism.The Greek term "harmartia" means "tragic flaw." However, the tragic flaw, in Greek mythology, is more of a mistake than an innate flaw. Aristotle stated that all tragic heroes suffer a "harmartia." This human weakness allows the audience to relate to the hero and feel sorry for him. Oedipus' flaw is his lack of knowledge about his own identity. Because he is not responsible for this flaw, the audience feels sorry for him and fears for him because they know there is nothing he can do to change his fate."
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Creon as the Tragic Hero, 2005.
An analysis of the character of Creon as the tragic hero in Sophocles' "Antigone".
852 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 0 sources, MLA, $ 30.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how, in Sophocles' "Antigone", the tragic hero of the play is Creon. It discusses how, although Antigone seems to be the tragic hero of the story, Creon meets Aristotle's criteria of a tragic hero as well as Antigone, if not more completely and, how, unlike Antigone, Creon has an epiphany at the end of the play and realizes his mistakes.
From the Paper
"Although Antigone seems to be the tragic hero, Creon actually meets Aristotle's criteria of a tragic hero more completely. According to Aristotle, a tragic hero is neither completely pure nor completely evil. Not only is a tragic hero neither completely pure nor completely evil, but a tragic hero must also be of noble birth and possess a hamartia that causes the downfall of that character through poor judgment and arrogant mistakes. As the king of Thebes and the son of a previous king, Creon certainly meets the criteria of noble birth. Also, Creon is neither entirely evil nor entirely good. He possesses many good qualities as well as many evil ones."
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Tragic Hero, 2007.
This paper analyzes Shakespeare's character of Othello as a tragic hero.
1,812 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 58.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer presents a detailed examination of the Shakespearean character Othello as a tragic hero. The writer discusses the character Othello, as held against the standards of philosopher Aristotle and compared to the character of Creon in Sophocles. The writer explores the six attributes that Aristotle believed were needed to become a tragic hero and argues that Othello fits this description more completely and convincingly than Creon did. The writer concludes that when it comes to Aristotle's definition of a tragic hero Othello clearly outpaces Creon in all six categories of definition.
Outline:
Introduction
Comparing the Characters to the Six Elements
Conclusion
From the Paper
"According to Aristotle there are six significant elements to being labeled a tragic hero. They include nobility and greatness, imperfection, faults or a downfall, punishment exceeding a crime, in other words the misfortune of the hero is not completely deserved by the hero, and there must be a discovery of self or something learned by the hero during the tragedy itself. The final criterion is that the audience is not left feeling a total sense of loss or sadness. When one holds Creon from Sophocles and Othello, from the play Othello against each other one can easily see that Othello is the more convincing tragic hero of the two."
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Tragic Heroes, 2002.
William Shakespeare's "Hamlet" and Troy, of August Wilson's "Fences"as tragic heroes.
650 words (approx. 2.6 pages), 2 sources, $ 26.95
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Abstract
This essay offers a brief definition of a "tragic hero," and then goes on to prove that William Shakespeare's Hamlet, and Troy in August Wilson's "Fences", qualify as tragic heroes under that definition.
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Othello As A Tragic Hero, 2002.
Using the theories of Aristotle regarding tragedy, this paper discusses the character of Othello in Shakespeare's "Othello" as a tragic hero.
1,900 words (approx. 7.6 pages), 7 sources, $ 71.95
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Abstract
This paper attempts to establish the character Othello in Shakespeare's Othello as a classic tragic hero as defined by Aristotle. The paper gives the various theories of Aristotle as found in his 'Poetics' related to tragedy and tragic hero.
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Hamlet as Tragic Hero, 2002.
Examining the qualities of a tragic hero according to Aristotles and questioning whether Shakespeare's "Hamlet" falls under this category.
714 words (approx. 2.9 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 25.95
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Abstract
Aristotle describes the characteristics of the tragic hero in "Poetics." Three of these characteristics are: that the character is mainly admirable; that the character exercises free choice in bringing about their own downfall; and that the character has one fatal flaw that leads to their demise. This paper analyzes the character Hamlet and shows that Hamlet meets these three characteristics of the tragic hero.
From the Paper
"The first of Aristotle?s characteristics is that that character is mainly admirable. Hamlet achieves this by having many good traits including intelligence, sensitivity and humility. However, the best evidence of Hamlet as an admirable character is his unwillingness to commit murder, even when given a reason that would justify the act. This shows that Hamlet is basically a good man. In the play, the ghost of Hamlet?s father orders him to take action and ?revenge his foul and most unnatural murder? (I,iv). Despite being given what at the time, can be seen as an acceptable reason to take action, Hamlet hesitates and procrastinates. It is Hamlet?s good nature and his rejection of committing murder that causes this hesitation. This represents the good qualities of Hamlet, his intelligence, his ability to be rational and the inherent goodness of his character. This also shows that Hamlet is a man who does what he believes in despite outside pressure to do otherwise. This shows that Hamlet is an admirable character in many ways."
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