Macbeth Literary Vocabulary

Front

What is a tragic hero?

Back

A tragic hero is a character in a story who makes a judgment error that inevitably leads to their own destruction. They are typically noble and have a tragic flaw (hamartia) that contributes to their downfall.

Front

Define 'catharsis' in the context of tragedy.

Back

Catharsis is the emotional release that the audience experiences as they witness the suffering of the tragic hero, leading to a sense of renewal or relief.

Front

What is an aside?

Back

An aside is a dramatic device where a character speaks to the audience, revealing their thoughts or feelings while other characters on stage remain unaware.

Front

Define 'dénouement'.

Back

Dénouement is the final part of a play, movie, or narrative where the plot strands are drawn together and matters are resolved.

Front

What is the definition of tragedy?

Back

Tragedy is a genre of literature that depicts the downfall of a hero due to their own flaws or mistakes.

Front

What is a tragic flaw (hamartia)?

Back

A tragic flaw is a character trait that leads to the downfall of the protagonist in a tragedy.

Front

Explain the term 'dramatic irony'.

Back

Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows more about a situation than the characters in the story, creating tension and engagement.

Front

What is the role of the chorus in Greek tragedy?

Back

The chorus provides commentary on the events of the play, reflects the public's opinion, and often foreshadows future events.

Front

Define 'soliloquy'.

Back

A soliloquy is a speech in which a character speaks their thoughts aloud, typically while alone on stage, allowing the audience insight into their inner feelings.

Front

What is the significance of the 'tragic ending'?

Back

A tragic ending emphasizes the consequences of the protagonist's flaws and decisions, often leaving the audience with a sense of loss or reflection.