Learn: Tragedy in AQA English Literature Specification B

Welcome!Today we'll explore the concept of tragedy in literature, a key genre in the AQA English Literature Specification B. We'll cover its features, key texts, and how it creates meaning in stories.

What is Tragedy?Tragedy is a genre of literature where the main character faces significant hardships, often due to a fatal flaw (hamartia) or external forces. It usually ends in downfall or death and examines profound themes like fate, suffering, and human nature.

Key Features of TragedyTragedies often involve a noble or high-status protagonist who makes a critical mistake or faces unavoidable circumstances, leading to their demise. These stories evoke emotions like pity and fear, helping the audience reflect on human flaws and fate.

Key Texts in AQA Specification BThe specification focuses on works that explore tragedy like Shakespeare's Othello, Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman, and John Keats's Selected Poems. Each of these texts provides a unique perspective on the key elements of tragedy.

OthelloShakespeare's Othello is a classic tragedy that explores themes of jealousy, betrayal, and manipulation. The protagonist, Othello, falls victim to his own insecurities and the schemes of Iago, leading to his tragic downfall.

Death of a SalesmanArthur Miller's play is a modern tragedy that examines the downfall of Willy Loman, a salesman who struggles to achieve the American Dream. His tragic flaw is his inability to face reality, which leads to his emotional and financial ruin.

Keats's Selected PoemsJohn Keats’s poems often explore themes of transience, beauty, and mortality, which align with the tragic genre. For example, in 'La Belle Dame sans Merci', the knight's love for the femme fatale leads to his despair and suffering.

Review Time!Well done! We've covered the key features of tragedy, important texts like Othello, Death of a Salesman, and Keats's Selected Poems. Now let’s test your understanding with a few more questions!

Well done!You've successfully explored tragedy as a genre, its features, and key texts in the AQA English Literature Specification B (7717). Keep up the great work and continue to think critically about these ideas!