Question

The ideal tragic hero is:

• A. Entirely virtuous
• B. Entirely evil
• C. A mix of good and bad qualities
• D. A deity

Answer 1

Answer:

C. A mix of good and bad qualities

According to Aristotle, the ideal tragic hero is a good person who makes a mistake that leads to their downfall. This mistake is called a "tragic flaw" or "hamartia". 

Characteristics of an ideal tragic hero

• Flawed: The hero is not perfect, but they are generally good. 

• High status: The hero is well-respected and has a high position in society. 

• Relatable: The hero's flaws make them relatable to the audience. 

• Downfall: The hero's downfall is caused by a mistake, not by vice or depravity. 

• Emotional response: The hero's downfall evokes feelings of pity and fear in the audience. 

Example of a tragic hero 

• Oedipus: Oedipus's downfall is a classic example of a tragic hero. Oedipus's suffering continues after the play ends, which makes the audience feel a sense of closure and pity.