Tragic Flaw

Tragic Hero & Tragic Flaw

• understand the function of a tragic hero

• understand the function of a tragic flaw

• analyze Othello's character in the play

Lesson Objectives

Tragic Hero

A tragic hero is of high rank and possesses great personal qualities, but a chain of fateful events (set in motion by the hero) grows in momentum and leads to the hero's downfall (catastrophe).

Multiple Choice

Which of the following qualities of Othello makes him a tragic hero?

• Othello is a black man.

• Othello is married in secret.

• Othello is a general in the Venetian military.

• Othello is not Christian.

Tragic Hero

Tragic heroes often lack self-knowledge. The audience sees the hero's mistakes or weaknesses, but the hero does not. This aspect creates dramatic irony in which the audience understands more about the brewing conflict.

Open Ended

Explain how Shakespeare creates dramatic irony to help the audience see Othello's mistakes or weaknesses.

Tragic Flaw

The tragic hero, though great, also has a tragic flaw or weakness that brings about his/her downfall. Some critics argue that the tragic flaw is more accurately seen as a mistake or error in judgment than a personal failing.

Multiple Select

What do you think will be Othello's tragic flaw? (choose 2)

• Othello's jealousy

• Othello's trusting nature

• Othello's need for acceptance

• Othello's rebellion against society

Function of the Hero & Flaw

Shakespearean tragedies use the tragic hero and flaw to develop dynamic characters, build aesthetic, or artistic depth, and communicate insights about the human condition.

Open Ended

What lesson(s) about the human condition have you learned so far from Othello's mistakes?