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International Journal of Frontiers in Sociology, 2024, 6(6); doi: 10.25236/IJFS.2024.060617.

The Quintessential Characteristics of Shakespearean Tragic Heroes

Author(s)

Pei Liang

Corresponding Author:
Pei Liang
Affiliation(s)

Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, 300387, China

Abstract

In the vast expanse of literary studies, the works of Shakespeare have consistently held a pivotal position, particularly his tragedies with their profound exploration of human nature and intricate emotional entanglements that have ignited the interests of countless scholars and artists. This paper examines the quintessential characteristics of Shakespearean tragic heroes: noble birth, tragic character flaws (hamartia), ethical conflicts, and inevitable fate. It explores how Shakespeare’s protagonists, despite being of high status, reflect the universal human experience of suffering and downfall. It also vividly embodies the richness and complexity of human essence. The analysis includes key examples from Shakespeare’s works, highlighting the interplay between character flaws and tragic outcomes. Additionally, the paper delves into the influence of historical and cultural contexts on Shakespeare’s choice of distinguished tragic protagonists, revealing the timeless and universal nature of these narratives in literature. Employing methodologies such as content analysis, literature review, and comparative analysis, this study conducts a comprehensive and profound investigation into Shakespearean tragic essence in its tragedies, providing new perspectives on the manifestation of Shakespearean tragedies.

Keywords

Shakespearean Tragedy, Renaissance Humanism, Tragic Heroes, Character Flaws

Cite This Paper

Pei Liang. The Quintessential Characteristics of Shakespearean Tragic Heroes. International Journal of Frontiers in Sociology (2024), Vol. 6, Issue 6: 106-111. https://doi.org/10.25236/IJFS.2024.060617.

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