Greek Tragedy

What is Tragedy?
What is considered tragic today? When might you use the work tragic

List the titles of films, plays or television shows that you consider to be tragic. Describe why you believe these titles have elements of tragedy.

Write your own definition of

Tragedy

Literal definition
The literal meaning of the word tragedy is goat singer, probably because a goat was the prize at an early contest and came to be associated with dramatic competition.

Religion
The greatest change from the Greek concept is that modern tragedy is no longer based on religion. To the Greeks, the gods were responsible for humanitys fate and held final power over the individual.

It was unthinkable to separate drama from religious ritual.

Tragedy was associated with the most profound themes and it was an expression of Athenians at their most serious.

Religion in Modern Tragedy

Modern society has replaced the gods as the cause of all our ills and placed the blame on the society we live in. Therefore we do not have to take responsibility for our own actions as society is to blame.

Aristotles Definition of Tragedy

A story that took the hero from happiness to misery because of a fatal flaw or mistake on his part. It elicits a strong emotional response of pity or fear from the audience. This was known as a catharsis or purging of the emotions.

Mythology
Most Greek tragedies were derived from mythology or the tales of Homer.

Audiences already knew the tale so exposition was not necessary.

Women in Greek Tragedy

Often shown as powerful and independent and therefore ideal subjects for tragedy. This was in direct contrast to the expectations that Athenian women lead modest, quiet lives.

Summary
Greek tragedy focused on: A single hero or crisis without sub-plots or multiple themes. Had a tragic end brought about by fate manipulated by the gods to which the hero submitted. Humanity was helpless before overwhelming forces. There was a sense of human greatness and nobility in the suffering that resulted.

The Role of the Chorus

Usually 15 men who sang and danced as part of the tragic action. Important role in furthering narrative related events prior to the start of the play or gave historical/religious background to the events. Gave the actors time to change masks and costumes.

Role of the Chorus (cont.)

Commented on the action during the play and offstage. Could represent public opinion and help shape audience response

Structure of Greek Tragedy

Prologue
Introductory Section Expository Rather Than Dramatic Indicates Starting Point of Action

Parados
Entrance of the Chorus Singing Song Contains Further Exposition and Comment on Theme of Play Sets Emotional Tone of Play

Episode
Scene plot is developed through action and dialogue between actors. There are usually five episodes.

Stasimon
Choral odes which separate episodes Provides balance with action so that the tragedy is balanced.

Exodus
Final Action After the Last stasimon, ended by Ceremonial Exit of All Players.