Basics of the Tragic Hero Literary Device
A Tragic Hero is a protagonist in a narrative who possesses a tragic flaw or makes a critical error in judgment that leads to their downfall. This character type is central to many classic tragedies and serves to illustrate themes of human frailty, fate, and the consequences of personal imperfections.
Pronunciation: /ˈtrædʒɪk ˈhɪəroʊ/
How Writers Use the Tragic Hero Device
Writers use the Tragic Hero to create a compelling narrative arc where a central character’s flaws and mistakes lead to their ultimate downfall. This device:
- Explores Human Flaws: Highlights the protagonist’s imperfections and their impact on the story.
- Drives Conflict: The hero’s mistakes or flaws create major conflicts and challenges.
- Elicits Sympathy: Readers or viewers often feel empathy for the tragic hero’s plight.
- Illustrates Themes: Demonstrates themes such as fate, moral struggle, and the consequences of personal choices.
Types of Tragic Hero and Examples
Here’s a table showcasing different types of Tragic Heroes with examples:
| Type of Tragic Hero | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Classical Tragic Hero | Character with a fatal flaw or error leading to downfall. | Oedipus Rex by Sophocles |
| Modern Tragic Hero | Contemporary protagonist with flaws leading to personal failure. | Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller |
| Anti-Hero | A protagonist who lacks traditional heroic qualities but still faces a downfall. | Breaking Bad (Walter White) |
| Byronic Hero | A complex, brooding character with a troubled past and a tragic end. | Don Juan by Lord Byron |
Rules for Crafting a Tragic Hero
The following table outlines essential rules for creating an effective Tragic Hero:
| Rule | Description |
|---|---|
| Flawed Character | The hero must possess a significant flaw or make a crucial mistake. |
| Noble Stature | Typically, the hero should have a high status or noble qualities. |
| Downfall | The flaw or mistake must lead to a significant downfall or tragic end. |
| Recognition | The hero often gains insight or recognition of their flaws near the end. |
| Evokes Sympathy | The character’s downfall should evoke empathy or pity from the audience. |
Tragic Hero in Literature
In literature, Tragic Heroes often illustrate profound themes through their journeys and downfalls. Here are some notable examples:
| Work | Author | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Oedipus Rex | Sophocles | Oedipus’s hubris and attempt to escape his fate lead to his tragic end. |
| Macbeth | William Shakespeare | Macbeth’s ambition and subsequent paranoia result in his downfall. |
| Hamlet | William Shakespeare | Hamlet’s indecision and obsession with avenging his father lead to tragedy. |
YouTube Link: Oedipus Rex Summary
YouTube Link: Macbeth Trailer
YouTube Link: Hamlet Trailer
Tragic Hero in Poetry
Poetry often explores the internal struggles and downfalls of Tragic Heroes. Here are some examples:
| Poem | Poet | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Ozymandias | Percy Bysshe Shelley | The poem reflects on the hubris of a once-great king and his eventual downfall. |
| The Raven | Edgar Allan Poe | The narrator’s descent into madness and obsession represents a tragic end. |
| My Last Duchess | Robert Browning | The Duke’s pride and jealousy lead to the tragic fate of his Duchess. |
YouTube Link: Ozymandias Reading
YouTube Link: The Raven Reading
YouTube Link: My Last Duchess Reading
Tragic Hero in Songs
Songs can portray Tragic Heroes through their lyrics, expressing personal flaws and downfalls. Here are some examples:
| Song | Artist | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Bohemian Rhapsody | Queen | The protagonist’s guilt and inner turmoil drive the narrative to a tragic end. |
| Hurt | Johnny Cash | Cash’s song explores deep regret and the consequences of past actions. |
| Someone Like You | Adele | The song reflects the sorrow and regret of a relationship’s end, showing a personal downfall. |
YouTube Link: Bohemian Rhapsody Music Video
YouTube Link: Hurt Music Video
YouTube Link: Someone Like You Music Video
Tragic Hero in Movies
Movies often use Tragic Heroes to drive powerful narratives and character arcs. Here are some notable examples:
| Movie | Director | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Othello | Oliver Parker | Othello’s jealousy and mistrust lead to tragic consequences. |
| A Beautiful Mind | Ron Howard | The protagonist’s struggle with mental illness affects his personal and professional life. |
| There Will Be Blood | Paul Thomas Anderson | The main character’s greed and ambition lead to moral and personal downfall. |
YouTube Link: Othello Trailer
YouTube Link: A Beautiful Mind Trailer
YouTube Link: There Will Be Blood Trailer
Tragic Hero in Advertising
In advertising, the Tragic Hero can be used to illustrate moral lessons or drive emotional appeal. Here are some examples:
| Ad | Company | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Dove Real Beauty | Dove | Highlights the impact of unrealistic beauty standards and promotes self-acceptance. |
| Nike – Just Do It | Nike | Emphasizes overcoming personal flaws and limitations to achieve success. |
| Apple – Think Different | Apple | Celebrates individuality and innovation, highlighting how flaws can lead to greatness. |
YouTube Link: Dove Real Beauty Ad
YouTube Link: Nike – Just Do It
YouTube Link: Apple – Think Different
FAQs about Tragic Hero
What defines a Tragic Hero?
A Tragic Hero is a protagonist who possesses a significant flaw or makes a critical error in judgment that leads to their downfall. This character typically has noble qualities but is doomed by their imperfection.
How does the Tragic Hero differ from a regular hero?
Unlike a regular hero, who typically overcomes challenges and achieves success, a Tragic Hero’s journey is marked by their flaws leading to their downfall, providing a deeper exploration of human imperfection and fate.
Can a Tragic Hero have redeeming qualities?
Yes, a Tragic Hero often has redeeming qualities and noble intentions, which make their downfall more poignant and the tragedy more profound.
Related Devices
Hamartia
Hamartia refers to the tragic flaw or error in judgment that leads to the hero’s downfall. It is a key component of the Tragic Hero and plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative.
Hubris
Hubris is excessive pride or arrogance, which often leads to a Tragic Hero’s downfall. It is a specific type of Hamartia seen in classical tragedies.
Catharsis
Catharsis is the emotional release experienced by the audience as they witness the Tragic Hero’s downfall. It is a fundamental aspect of the tragic genre, providing a sense of resolution and emotional cleansing.