In Greek tragedy the tragic situation, in which the characters find themselves, is always a situation of utmost conflict. ... The hero, like any man, is human. ... Every tragic situation results in severest suffering for the protagonist. ... Characteristic of the tragic catastrophe is the fact that not only the protagonist comes to be destroyed, but very often innocent people are also involved in the tragic happenings and lose their lives (for example, Creon's son and wife in "Antigone".) ... By participating vicariously in the grief, pain and fear of the tragic hero or heroine, the spect...

• Word Count: 1396
• Approx Pages: 6
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

The tragic nature of the play and the themes are conveyed not only through these features, but also through the role of the chorus and dramatic techniques including irony. Oedipus is seen as a tragic hero in the play, a principal character, in a position of social importance being the King of Thebes. ... This worsened the tragedy, adding to his humiliation in end, as a result of his thoughtless accusations against Creon and Teiresias. ... The tragic nature of the play, is not only brought out by Oedipus's characteristic flaws, but also by the way he was treated by the gods. ...

• Word Count: 1270
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: Undergraduate