LF2 - Lesson: Backgrounds to Tragedy

Comedy - represents the nadir or worst of humanity. Tragedy - represents to zenith or best of humanity.Backgrounds to Tragedy

Introduction

In this module, we will look at theories of tragedy from literary critics throughout the ages. Also, we will briefly touch upon the function of comedy and tragedy and how they represent both the best and worst of humanity. Understanding these conceptual frameworks can help us to better discuss the purposes of each genre and offer an access point for analysis.

The image to the right outlines two forms of drama: comedy and tragedy. It provides the following information:

  • Comedy represents the nadir or worst of humanity
  • Tragedy represents the zenith or best of humanity

The Definitions

It is now time to delve into the definitions of comedy and tragedy. Watch the video presentation below. Take notes and use the navigational tools at the bottom of the video to pause and rewind as necessary.

Ensure that your speakers are turned up.

Let's Review

See how well you understand the concept by participating in the activity below.

For this activity, you will do the following: select your favorite tragic or sad movie, book, or television show. Each card will have one of the Comedy and Tragedy vocabulary terms (a brief explanation or the definition of the term will be on the back). Write out your responses in your notebook for each vocabulary term, applying your understanding of how that term applies to your chosen work.

Final Thoughts

Tragedy is considered a little higher up on the literary scale, but this doesn’t mean that comedies can’t have tragic elements and vice versa. To understand tragedy, you’ve been presented with some terminology that dates back to the ancient Greeks.

Of these terms, catharsis is by far the most important.

Please remember this term and be looking for the moment of catharsis in each play, where the character has a moment of purging and release.

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