Plot Structure of a Shakespearean Tragedy
Shakespearean Tragedy
Definition: A conflict which ends in tragedy.
Elements of a Shakespearean Tragedy:
• The hero is usually a person of noble birth, of a generally admirable character (i.e. a person who is looked up to by others).
• The hero to a large extent brings about his own downfall because of the tragic flaw in his character. The hero is placed in a situation which his tragic flaw prevents him from overcoming.
• There is a conflict between the hero and other characters, and between the hero and himself. The conflict involves others around him who are not directly involved in the original situation.
• The main source of the action which causes the suffering is plain moral evil. The ultimate goal in the tragic world is a restoration of moral order – the triumph of good over evil; the tragedy cannot be resolved until evil is wiped out.
• Chance (often unlucky chance) plays the part of fate. The supernatural also often plays a part in advancing the plot.
• Abnormal conditions of mind are often present.
• The catastrophe of the tragedy must involve some kind of emotional purge or catharsis. The emotional reaction of the audience to tragedy is one of pity and horror; there is always an impression of waste.
Plot Structure of a Shakespearean Tragedy
ACT I Exposition or Introduction
▪ Gives setting of time, place, atmosphere
▪ Tells background of the action
▪ Introduces the main characters
▪ Contains the INCITING INCIDENT / EXCITING FORCE (the moment the protagonist first starts to struggle with the main conflict)
ACT II Complication
▪ Rising action begins where the hero struggles with small problems that impede his actions but that still show the protagonist as capable of winning the conflict
▪ Introduces secondary characters, if necessary
▪ In some cases, introduces a secondary or sub-plot
ACT III Cimax
▪ Provides the turning point of the action from hope for the protagonist to an assured tragedy
▪ Anticipates the conclusion
▪ Includes the crisis, or the point at which we know which side will win
ACT IV Reversal
▪ Provides the decline of the hero
▪ Gives additional suggestions as to the nature of the conclusion
▪ Brings and end to the secondary plot, if present
ACT V Catastrophe
▪ Provides a conclusion logical in respect to the rest of the play
▪ Gives suggestions of the after effects and of how order is restored
▪ Leaves the audience satisfied that the various characters have been suitable rewarded or punished, as the case may be
▪ Includes the denouement, or the logical ending of the plot, which unties any knots, solves any difficulties, and which deals the final blow to the hero
▪ Is the high point of the action in terms of suspense and interest
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