12AP English
Mr. Klein
Oh, the Tragedy of it all!
Keep in mind the basic elements of tragedy:
Order (Dike) is disrupted (Adikea). The disrupter is obstinate (Hamartia, Hubris).
There is a moment of recognition (Anagnorisis) and the disrupter is punished (Peripetia).
A purge of emotions (Catharsis) is experienced, and order is restored (Exodus).
Essay Choice 1
Modern motion pictures and dramas reflect the basic dramatic structure of Greek tragedy.
Since most modern films are influenced by Judeo-Christian tradition, the protagonist
generally makes a conscious decision to do wrong, unlike the Greek protagonist who was
tied to a fate he/she couldn’t comprehend. Choose a film or play and explain how it is like
and unlike a classical tragedy. Be sure to use concrete details from the modern production
and from Oedipus Rex. Keep in mind a tragic hero MUST come to realize what he/she has
done, and willingly sacrifice himself/herself to restore order.
Essay Choice 2
When Greek tragedy was born out of religious ritual, it combined dialogue scenes, dance,
and singing. In the seventeenth century a group of Florentine noblemen wanting to revive
Greek tragedy created opera. In it dialogue became recitative, dance became a ballet, and
singing became arias as well as choruses. Compare and contrast Oedipus Rex and a modern
opera or musical and explain how the structural and thematic elements of Greek tragedy
have evolved (i.e. Phantom of the Opera).
Essay Choice 3
You may not be a mighty king as Oedipus was, but you fight the same battle between your
Apollonian and Dionysian sides. Discuss a “tragedy” in your life. Describe a time when you
tried to be what you were not, or reached too high, or refused to listen to someone who knew
better. You demonstrated Hubris, and committed an Adikea; because of these elements, you
experienced Anagnorisis and suffered Peripetia. Maybe it was simply embarrassment, or
maybe it was physical or emotional pain, but it led you to a Catharsis. Use the appropriate
Greek terms throughout, and use details from Oedipus Rex as well as from your experience.
This can certainly be humorous and well as serious.