The Tragic Hero

Worksheet Description

This educational worksheet is centered around the concept of catharsis in the context of a tragic hero, a cornerstone of classical Greek tragedy. The first section instructs students to discuss the defining characteristics of a tragic hero, which typically include nobility, a tragic flaw, and an inevitable downfall. Learners are asked to ponder the crucial role that such a hero plays in the cathartic process, which is the emotional purging or release that the audience experiences as a result of the hero’s journey.

In the second part of the worksheet, students are encouraged to apply their theoretical understanding by selecting an example of a tragic hero from the tragedies they have read. This section is designed to foster analytical skills, as students must not only recall the narrative and traits of the tragic hero but also articulate how these elements contribute to the catharsis in the narrative. This exercise connects the dots between character development and thematic resolution, allowing students to explore how the protagonist’s arc catalyzes catharsis, ultimately leading to a deeper appreciation of the tragic form and its impact on the audience.