This is a class powerpoint to explain characteristics of tragedy as discussed by Aristotle. I use it to accompany our study of Oedipus.

1. Elements of Tragedy
In ancient Greek literature

2. Conditions that must be present
• Tragic character must be of
high birth status
• They must experience a
series of events that
threaten their position
• These events have a
domino effect: one action
leads to another
• The hero must suffer some
tragic fall due to his own
actions (even though the
gods do some things).
Thus, the hero chooses his
own destiny.

3. Motif
• A recurring image or
idea
• “Quest for knowledge”

4. Assignment
• Do a T-chart listing Oedipus’ good and bad
traits. Label the trait G or B or G/B for
Good, Bad, or both Good and Bad
• Do questions 1 and 2 on page 453 under the
“Analyzing Tragedy” section
• Do questions 2-3 on p. 453 under Critical
Thinking and Reading” section