AQA A-Level English Literature B key terms
Aspects of tragedy Key Terms
Study Aspects of tragedy with curriculum-aligned Key Terms resources, practice links, and exam-focused support.
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key terms
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Topic
Aspects of tragedy
Key terms
Tragedy
A genre of literature that depicts the downfall of a noble hero or heroine, often due to a tragic flaw.
Anagnorisis
The moment in a play or other work when a character makes a critical discovery.
Tragic Hero
A protagonist with noble qualities who experiences a downfall due to their tragic flaw.
Fate
The predetermined course of events often beyond the control of the protagonist in a tragedy.
Hamartia
A tragic flaw or error in judgment that leads to the protagonist's downfall.
Catharsis
The emotional release experienced by the audience as a result of the tragic events in the narrative.
Fate
The predetermined course of events that is often beyond the control of the characters, leading to inevitable outcomes.
Opposition
The conflict or resistance faced by the protagonist from other characters or societal norms, which complicates their journey.
Hamartia
A tragic flaw or error in judgment that leads to the protagonist's downfall.
Peripeteia
A sudden reversal of fortune or change in circumstances, often pivotal in a tragedy.
Hamartia
A tragic flaw or error in judgment that leads to the protagonist's downfall.
Anagnorisis
The moment of recognition or discovery, often leading to the protagonist's realization of their fate.
Anagnorisis
The moment of critical discovery or recognition, often leading to the protagonist's downfall.
Peripeteia
A sudden reversal of fortune or change in circumstances, particularly in a tragedy.
Anagnorisis
The moment of recognition or discovery, often leading to the protagonist's downfall.
Peripeteia
A sudden reversal of fortune or change in circumstances, particularly in a tragedy.
Hamartia
A tragic flaw or error in judgment that leads to the protagonist's downfall.
Anagnorisis
The moment of critical discovery or recognition, often leading to the tragic hero's downfall.
Catharsis
The emotional release experienced by the audience, often through pity and fear, as a result of the tragic events in a play.
Hamartia
A tragic flaw or error in judgment that leads to the downfall of the tragic hero.
Anagnorisis
The moment in a play or other work when a character makes a critical discovery.
Peripeteia
A sudden reversal of fortune or change in circumstances, often leading to the protagonist's downfall.
Anagnorisis
The moment of critical discovery or recognition, often leading to the protagonist's downfall.
Peripeteia
A sudden reversal of fortune or change in circumstances, particularly in reference to the protagonist's situation.
Hamartia
A tragic flaw or error in judgment that leads to the protagonist's downfall.
Anagnorisis
The moment of critical discovery or recognition, often leading to the protagonist's realization of their fate.
Tragedy
A genre that depicts the downfall of a protagonist, often due to a fatal flaw or societal pressures.
Foreshadowing
A literary device used to give an indication or hint of what is to come later in the story.
Tragedy
A genre that depicts the downfall of a noble character due to a tragic flaw or fate, often evoking pity and fear.
Symbolism
The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities, enhancing the thematic depth of a literary work.
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