Definition of tragedy: “Tragedy is the imitation of an action that is admirable, complete and possesses magnitude; in language made pleasurable performed by actors, not through narration, effecting through pity and fear the purification of such emotions”
Components of tragedy (in order):
1.Plot: Crisis must contain magnitude. Universal & relatable
2. Character: Tragedy is not an imitation of persons but of life. Must have; goodness, liveability, high status, consistant
3. Thought: Idea or theme “spine”
4. Diction: Language should be pleasurable, Prose vs Verse, Rhyme, Rhythm, Long Speech vs Short speech
5. Melody: Music, the overall sound
6. Spectacle: Visual elements – Set, lighting, props, costume, movement
Other definitions
Catharsis: Purgation or purification
Hamartia: Mistake, error, miscalculation
Recognition & Reversal
The Unities:
Time: Suggests play should take place in 1 day (24h)
Place: Suggests play should take place in one setting & shouldn’t change
Action: Suggests play should have one single unified action with no side story or sub plot
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