Death of a Hero in Modern Tragedy Essay - 607 Words

Death of a Hero in Modern Tragedy *No Works Cited Is there anything that can evoke more emotion from an audience than a heros downfall? The most effective plays in history, from Oedipus , the most famous of all tragedies, to plays like Romeo and Juliet , tragedies are always the plays with the greatest emotional impact on an audience. There are many critics who believe that tragedies can no longer be effectively written in todays world. These critics believe that the tragic mode is archaic, fit only for the very highly placed, the kings or the kingly and therefore cannot realistically exist in the modern world (Tragedy 1). Tragedy is possible in the modern world. In fact, modern tragedy has the potential to affect an†¦show more content†¦In the light of modern psychiatry, which bases its analysis upon classic formulations... which apply to everyone in similar emotional situations( Tragedy 1). According to Miller, an Oedipus complex, although originally portrayed by a King, could as easily be transferred to any chara cter to be a tragic hero in todays world. Willy, in the play, as well as any character, is described by his virtues. The following quote is almost like a description of Willys virtues; I think tragic feeling is evoked in us when we are in the presence of a character who is ready to lay down his life, if need be, to secure one thing-his sense of personal dignity... to gain his rightful place in society( Tragedy 1). The entire play is the story of Willys quest to gain his niche in society. Willy believes he deserves to be wealthy, well liked, and respected. Willy decides the only way he can preserve his dignity and gain his societal niche is by committing suicide; Its twenty thousand dollars... guaranteed... Ben, the funeral will be massive!( Death 126). A powerful feeling is felt in the audience when they see Willys only option is suicide. The society which he worked so hard to be a part of let him down, and this is why modern tragedy is so good at stirring an audiences feelings, because the downfall of the hero is so real a possibility. It is not some king with a fatal flaw,Show MoreRelatedEssay on Can Willy Loman Be Considered A Tragic Hero?1632 Words   |  7 PagesCan Willy Loman Be Considered A Tragic Hero? Whether Willy Loman can be considered a tragic hero has long been debated between critics. Ever since Miller produced the play, people have discussed whether Willy’s status was high enough for his fall to be considered tragic, or whether Willy can be seen as an altogether modern tragic hero, I will be looking at both these views taking into consideration critics views and also adding my own thoughts. Tragedy has its origin in ancient Greece. 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