COMSATS University Abbottabad
Name: Mashahid Hussain Syed
Reg No: FA21-BEN-022
Assignment # 01
Title: Interpret any text of an Author by
using Literary Approach
Course: Literary Criticism & Theory
Teacher: Dr. Sardar Muhammad
Elements of Tragedy as suggested by Aristotle:
Aristotle's Poetics, written in the 4th century BCE, is one of the earliest and most
influential works of literary criticism. In it, Aristotle outlines his theory of tragedy
and identifies several key elements that he believed were essential for a successful
tragic drama. These elements are still studied and discussed by scholars and
playwrights today. Here are the main elements of tragedy as suggested by
Aristotle:
1. Plot (Mythos):
Aristotle considered the plot to be the most important element of a tragedy.
He believed that a well-structured plot was crucial for creating a successful
and emotionally impactful tragedy.
The plot should have a clear beginning, middle, and end, with a logical and
causally connected sequence of events.
It should also follow the principle of unity of action, meaning that every
element of the plot should be relevant and contribute to the overall
narrative.
2. Character (Ethos):
According to Aristotle, the characters in a tragedy should be well-
developed and realistic, and their actions should be consistent with their
personalities.
The protagonist (main character) should possess a tragic flaw or hamartia,
which is a personal weakness or error in judgment that leads to their
downfall.
The audience should be able to empathize with the characters and their
struggles.
3. Thought (Dianoia):
This element refers to the intellectual and philosophical aspects of a
tragedy. Aristotle believed that a tragedy should explore important moral
and ethical questions.
Through the characters' actions and dialogue, the audience should be
prompted to think deeply about universal themes and dilemmas.
4. Diction (Lexis):
Diction refers to the language and style used in the tragedy. Aristotle
argued that the language should be elevated and poetic but not overly
ornate or artificial.
The dialogue should be appropriate to the characters and their social
status, and it should enhance the emotional impact of the play.
5. Song (Melos):
In ancient Greek tragedies, music and choral odes were an integral part of
the performance. Aristotle believed that the use of music and song could
heighten the emotional intensity of the play.
The choral odes provided a reflective and emotional commentary on the
events of the plot.
6. Spectacle (Opsis):
While Aristotle considered spectacle to be the least important of the six
elements, he still acknowledged its role in a tragedy.
Spectacle includes the visual aspects of the production, such as costumes,
set design, and special effects. These elements should complement the
story rather than overshadow it.
7. Catharsis:
Aristotle introduced the concept of catharsis, which refers to the emotional
cleansing or purging that the audience experiences through witnessing the
tragic events on stage.
He believed that a well-crafted tragedy would evoke pity and fear in the
audience, allowing them to release and process their own pent-up emotions.
These seven elements work together to create a powerful and emotionally resonant
tragic drama. While Aristotle's ideas on tragedy have been debated and adapted
over the centuries, they continue to be a foundational framework for understanding
and analyzing tragic literature and theater.
