Tragic Hero Essay Guidelines
Prompt: Based on the definition of a tragic hero, who is the tragic hero in
Antigone? Write a six-paragraph essay that argues your answer.
1. Be sure to address all elements of the tragic hero:
 Dignified, superior character
 Possesses a tragic flaw
 Recognizes flaw and consequences
 Meets tragic end
2. Use MLA format:
 Page one set-up/four-line heading is correct
 Beginnings of 6 paragraphs are indented
 Double-spaces lines but NO extra space between paragraphs
 Number of pages 2 and on is correct
 Transitions are used well at the beginning of body paragraphs
 1” margins; appropriate font is used
 Appropriate 2-part title reflects essay’s point/argument
 Third-person point of view (NO “I”/”we” or “you” unless inside a quotation)
 Citation (see additional information below)
3. Begin with an introduction paragraph:
 Grabs reader’s attention
 Contains play’s title and playwright’s name
 Contains clear, strong thesis as last sentence with four parallel parts that agree
with body paragraphs’ topic sentences
4. Include body paragraphs (4):
 Begin with a topic sentence that includes a transition and element of definition
 Offer reasons the character fits this element
 Include one quotation from the play to prove, support your argument
 Format for the quotation depends on its length and number of speakers
o use a slash ( / ) with a space before and after it between lines of play
written in verse (such as Antigone)
o verse quotations of more than three lines should be set off from the text as
a block
o If quotation includes dialogue from more than one character (even if only
two lines long), then set it off from the text as in the example handout
(photocopy of “Details of MLA Style”—1.3.4 Drama 80)
 Include a citation after the quotation -- examples: (Pro.1-2), (Par.31-32) (S.1.4647), (O.1.13-15)
 End with a concluding sentence that refers back to the thesis very
obviously (use the terms “tragic hero” as well as the element of the
definition)
5. End with a concluding paragraph
 Begin with a transition
 Restate thesis
 End with final statement about the character’s overall importance to the play
6. NOTE on Works Cited:
You do NOT need to include a list of works cited since we are all using the same
source.