Aristotelian Tragedy

Definition

Aristotelian tragedy refers to a dramatic genre defined by Aristotle in his seminal work 'Poetics,' where he outlines the characteristics and purpose of tragedy. This type of tragedy is marked by its focus on the downfall of a noble hero due to a tragic flaw, evoking emotions of pity and fear in the audience. The structure often includes elements such as peripeteia (reversal of fortune) and anagnorisis (recognition), which contribute to the cathartic experience intended to cleanse the emotions of the viewers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aristotelian tragedy emphasizes a noble character who falls from grace, highlighting moral and ethical dilemmas faced by individuals in society.
2. The tragic plot usually unfolds with a clear beginning, middle, and end, structured around the principles laid out by Aristotle.
3. The unity of time, place, and action is crucial in Aristotelian tragedies, aiming for a cohesive narrative that unfolds within a single timeframe and location.
4. Corneille, a key figure in French tragedy, was influenced by Aristotelian principles while also adapting them to fit the themes of honor and conflict within his plays.
5. French tragedies often straddled the line between classical ideals and emerging notions of individuality and personal conflict, diverging from strict Aristotelian conventions.

Review Questions

• How do the elements of peripeteia and anagnorisis function in Aristotelian tragedies to enhance their emotional impact?
  • Peripeteia and anagnorisis are crucial elements in Aristotelian tragedies that heighten the emotional experience for the audience. Peripeteia involves a sudden reversal of fortune for the protagonist, leading to a moment of crisis that captivates viewers. Anagnorisis follows this reversal, where characters achieve critical self-awareness or realization about their circumstances. Together, these elements create powerful moments that evoke pity and fear, fulfilling Aristotle's idea of catharsis.
• Discuss how Pierre Corneille adapted Aristotelian principles in his works while contributing to the development of French tragedy.
  • Pierre Corneille took inspiration from Aristotelian principles while also incorporating themes relevant to 17th-century French society. While adhering to the classical structure and tragic elements outlined by Aristotle, Corneille introduced complex characters driven by honor and moral conflict. His plays often emphasized personal dilemmas rather than solely focusing on fate or divine intervention, marking a shift towards exploring individuality within the framework of tragedy. This adaptation allowed him to craft narratives that resonated with contemporary audiences while honoring classical traditions.
• Evaluate how Aristotelian tragedy has influenced modern interpretations of dramatic narratives and character development in theatre today.
  • Aristotelian tragedy has had a lasting impact on modern drama by establishing foundational narrative structures and character arcs that continue to resonate in contemporary storytelling. The concepts of hamartia and catharsis inform character development, allowing for relatable protagonists who face profound moral challenges. Additionally, modern playwrights often explore themes of existential struggle and societal issues while utilizing classic tragic elements, demonstrating how Aristotle's ideas remain relevant. This blending of traditional forms with modern themes highlights the enduring influence of Aristotelian tragedy in shaping the evolution of theatrical narratives.

Related terms

Catharsis: Catharsis is the emotional release that audiences experience through the tragedies they witness, allowing for a sense of renewal and emotional relief.

Hamartia: Hamartia refers to the tragic flaw or error in judgment that leads to the protagonist's downfall in a tragedy.

Chorus: In ancient Greek theatre, the chorus was a group that commented on the action, providing insights and reflections that enriched the emotional and thematic layers of the tragedy.