Characteristics of a Shakespearan Tragedy

554 Words3 Pages
Xochitl Lopez AP English Literature M. Ferraro Tuesday 11, 2012 Characteristics of a Shakespearean Tragedy Shakespeare was known for his amazing work in literature. He wrote plays that are still well known today. Shakespeare used the model of Aristotle. The model of an Aristotelian tragedy initiates with the hero. The protagonist must begin as someone of importance or wealth. The perfect example is someone of royalty. Although he is royalty, he is not perfect. In the tragedy the hero relates to the audience making bad decisions. In the play Macbeth Shakespeare does not follow the complete Aristotle. The play changes from the Aristotle, creating the Mind tragedy which is revealed in the play Macbeth. In the play Macbeth, the three elements are tragic flaw, complicated plot, and the unexpected ending. Macbeth's tragic flaw is his own ambition. This leads him to betray King Duncan, and murder his friend Banquo. Macbeth becomes Thane of Cawdor only after the previous thane rebels against the king. Macbeth has the ambition to eventually become king. With such strong ambition he is willing to remove anything or anyone who is in the way. “Fair is foul, and foul is fair” (line 10.) When the witches make the statement, they are introducing the tragic flaw of Macbeth. “If chance will have me king, why chance may crown me without my stir” (Act I, Scene I line 144.) Macbeth announces to the audience that he will not give up on the chance of being king. He demonstrates his ambition in a way that can be interpreted as self-fish. As Shakespeare tragedy continues he establishes the plot. The death of Duncan marks the beginning of the end for Macbeth because he is then overcome with ruthless ambition and fear that his throne will be taken from him.” Things without remedy should be without regard. What’s done is done” (Act III, scene ii Lines 11-12.) Lady Macbeth expressed

More about Characteristics of a Shakespearan Tragedy

Open Document