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Learn: Shakespearean Tragedy in AQA English Literature Specification B
AQA English Literature Specification B (7717)
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Welcome!Today we'll explore the concept of Shakespearean Tragedy, a key topic in the AQA English Literature Specification B. We'll break it down step by step to help you understand its themes, structure, and significance in literature.
What is a Shakespearean Tragedy?A Shakespearean Tragedy is a dramatic work by William Shakespeare that typically explores the downfall of a tragic hero due to a fatal flaw (hamartia) or external forces. These plays often deal with themes of fate, ambition, love, and power, and aim to evoke pity and fear in the audience.
Key Features of Shakespearean TragedyShakespearean tragedies follow a specific structure and include important elements that define the genre.
Structure of Shakespearean TragedyShakespearean tragedies often follow a five-act structure:Act 1: Introduction, setting up the main characters and conflicts.Act 2: Rising action, where the plot develops and problems arise.Act 3: The climax, typically where the hero makes a critical decision that leads to their downfall.Act 4: Falling action, showing the consequences of the hero's choices.Act 5: Resolution, often ending in catastrophe and the hero's death.
Which act in a Shakespearean tragedy typically includes the climax?
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Key Themes in Shakespearean TragedyShakespeare's tragedies often explore universal themes, including:Fate: The idea that characters are doomed by destiny or external forces.Ambition: The pursuit of power, often leading to the hero's downfall.Love: Intense emotions that can lead to conflict and tragedy.Conflict: Internal struggles and external battles, often leading to catastrophic consequences.
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The Tragic HeroA tragic hero is a central figure in Shakespearean tragedies. They are often noble or high-ranking individuals with a fatal flaw (hamartia) that leads to their downfall. This flaw could be ambition, jealousy, pride, or impulsiveness.
A tragic hero usually has a fatal flaw, or {{blank0}}, that leads to their downfall.
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Review Time!Great work! You've explored the structure, themes, and elements of Shakespearean Tragedy. Let's review what we've learned!
Which of the following are common themes in Shakespearean Tragedy? (Select all that apply)
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What is the term for the tragic hero's fatal flaw?
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Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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Congratulations!You've completed the lesson on Shakespearean Tragedy. Keep exploring these fascinating works and their themes!
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