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Archetype, Tragic Hero, TragedyName: ____________________ Date: __________________ Topic: ____________________Cues (Main Points):

Notes (Supporting Details and Examples):

Summary Statement:

Archetype . . . An archetype is a basic model, a prototype, a paradigm, an exemplar.An archetype is atavistic and universal; it is a product of the collective unconscious.

Fundamental facts of human existence . . .

BirthGrowing upDeathLoveFamilyTribal lifeSibling rivalryGenerational conflictCreatures & Symbols . . . LionEagleSnakeTortoise HareRoseParadisiacal garden

Character types . . .

The rebelThe playerThe femme fataleThe self-made manThe all-conquering heroThe traitorThe villainThe god-kingThe king as a sacrificial scapegoatThe tragic hero

MotifsThe fall from innocenceSin and redemptionThe heroic questThe pursuit of vengeance, justice, retribution Themes and MotifsTheme: a common, recurring topic seen throughout a literary work; or a prominent and oftentimes abstract idea in a literary work.Motif: a recurring element (e.g., object, idea, or character type) or contrasting elements in a work of literature that help to illuminate theme. When asked to explore how a motif (e.g., a Bar Mitzvah, a Bat Mitzvah, or a Quinceaera) helps to illuminate a theme, make sure to identify a prominent idea (e.g., empathy, not age, equals maturity) in addition to a common, recurring topic (e.g., coming of age). Example:Motif (Character Foils): Ultima and TenorioAging, senile father with a compassionate, benevolent daughter and scheming, malevolent daughter(s)Theme (Topic): Good vs. EvilTheme (Prominent Idea): For good to truly triumph over evil, we must learn to forgive those who perform evil deeds. Tragic Hero . . . He is elevated to a high status and position in society, and he possesses noble stature and greatness. While he embodies nobility and virtue, he is flawed. His downfall or demise is due in part to freewill, an error in judgment (i.e., hamartia) associated with a tragic flaw (e.g., hubris).His downfall or demise is due in part to fate. His misfortune is not wholly deserved; the punishment exceeds the crime.He gains awareness, insight, and self-knowledge as a result of his fall from grace.

TragedyAn action of great magnitude is at the center of the plot.Pathos (that which evokes pity or sympathy) is an essential element of the play.The plot is carefully sequenced, moving from the complication to the unraveling or denouement.Complication: Prologue to turning pointDenouement: Turning point to the resolutionComplicated plots involve reversal (peripeteia), which is a sudden change or reversal of circumstance or fortune, and recognition (anagnorisis), which is a change from ignorance to knowledge.A catastrophe occurs, which usually spirals outward: not only does the tragic hero suffer, but his family also suffers. A catharsis (a purification or purging of emotions; a spiritual renewal) occurs.