Greek Drama: Aristotle's Six Aspects of Tragedy

Introduction

• Presented by Miss Sadiki
• Focus on the six aspects of tragedy as developed by Aristotle
• Aristotle: a prominent 4th Century BC Greek philosopher
• Wrote Poetics, a critique aimed at playwrights like Sophocles
• Poetics: first example of literary criticism, influential worldwide

The Six Aspects of Tragedy

1. Plot

   • Must be whole with a beginning, middle, and end
   • Contains a climax and resolution
   • Should have Unity of action
   • No Deus Ex Machina (external intervention)
   • Avoid episodic plots (multiple mini plots)
   • Can be simple or complex
   • Key components:
     • Catastrophe: change in fortune for the protagonist
     • Peripeteia: reversal in situation
     • Anagnorisis: recognition or realization that comes too late

2. Character

   • Central character is a tragic hero
   • Should be a leader or king, renowned and prosperous
   • Experiences a change from good to bad due to hamartia (tragic flaw)
   • Common hamartia: Hubris (arrogance or pride)
   • Tragic heroes should be:
     • Consistent, idealized, true to life, and good
     • Their downfall is necessary and probable
   • Audience should feel pity and fear for the tragic hero
   • Example: Oedipus Rex – a blend of good and evil, clever but blind to the truth

3. Thought

   • The play should reference a specific theme or message valued by society

4. Diction

   • Appropriate word choice and use of literary devices

5. Song

   • Musical elements are integral, including the role of the chorus

6. Spectacle

   • Not the primary goal of tragedy; more about audience catharsis
   • Aim is to create a purging effect through the tragic hero's experiences

Conclusion

• Aristotle's elements of tragedy contribute to the depth and impact of Greek plays
• Importance of tragic hero's journey and audience engagement
• Reminder to take notes in your stdl packet