What is a tragic hero?



The tragic hero is a man of noble stature. He is not an ordinary man, but a man with outstanding quality and greatness about him. His own destruction is for a greater cause or principle.



Common characteristics of a tragic hero

According to Aristotle:

# Usually of noble birth

# Hamartia - a.k.a. the tragic flaw that eventually leads to his downfall.

# Peripeteia - a reversal of fortune brought about by the hero's tragic flaw

# His actions result in an increase of self- awareness and self-knowledge

# The audience must feel pity and fear for this character.



Above: Four of Shakespeare's principal tragic characters: King Lear, Macbeth, Richard III and Hamlet.



Aristotle: "A man cannot become a hero until he can see the root of his own downfall."



It should be noted that the hero's downfall is his own fault as a result of his own free choice, but his misfortune is not wholly deserved. Usually, his death is seen as a waste of human potential. His death is not a pure loss since it results in greater knowledge and awareness.



[b]Essay[/b]: Based on the definitions above, discuss whether or not Macbeth fits the qualifications of a tragic hero. Be sure to use evidence and specific examples to support your assertions (thinking).