Tragedy

Tragedy is a genre of literature, drama, and art that depicts the suffering and downfall of a protagonist, often leading to a catastrophic or painful resolution. Typically characterized by serious themes, tragedies explore profound moral and existential questions, highlighting human struggles against fate, moral dilemmas, and the complexities of emotion. The central character, or tragic hero, usually possesses a tragic flaw (hamartia) that leads to their demise or significant suffering, eliciting feelings of pity and fear in the audience. Tragedies often conclude with a sense of catharsis, where emotions are purged, leaving the audience with a deeper understanding of the human condition. This genre has roots in ancient Greek theater, notably in the works of playwrights like Sophocles and Euripides, and has evolved over the centuries, influencing various forms of storytelling, including modern drama and literature.