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Difference Between Aristotle and Shakespearean Tragedy 01

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Difference Between Aristotle and Shakespearean Tragedy 01

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Difference Between Aristotle and Shakespearean

Tragedy
Aristotelian tragedy and Shakespearean tragedy are two of the most important forms
of tragedies when we study the evolution of tragedies. Although Shakespearean
tragedies have been influenced by Aristotle’s concepts of tragedy, some differences can
be noted between the two. The main difference between Aristotle and Shakespearean
tragedy is the unity of plot; Aristotelian tragedy consists of a single central plot
whereas Shakespearean tragedy consists of several interwoven subplots.

This article explores,

1. What is an Aristotle Tragedy – Features, Characteristics and Elements

2. What is a Shakespearean Tragedy – Features, Characteristics and Elements

3. Difference Between Aristotle and Shakespearean Tragedy – Comparison of

Features, Characteristics and Elements
What is an Aristotle Tragedy
Aristotle’s Poetics is the earliest-surviving work of dramatic theory, and this work is a
good source to examine Aristotle’s views on tragedy. According to Aristotle, a tragedy is
characterized by seriousness. It represents or imitates the reality. Thus, it is an imitation
of action and life, of happiness and misery.

Aristotle describes six main elements of a tragedy: plot, character, diction, thought,
spectacle (scenic effect), and song composition. The plot was considered to be the
most important out of these elements.

The plot must be a complete whole while containing a definite beginning, middle, and
end. The plot also requires a single central theme where all elements are logically
connected.

The plot of a tragedy usually revolves around a renowned and prosperous hero who
faces a reversal fortune, particularly due to his own tragic flaw. The plot consists of two
main elements: reversal, and recognition. Reversal occurs when a situation seems to be
developing in one direction and then suddenly reverses in another direction. Oedipus’
investigation of the murder of Laius is an example of this element. Recognition is the
point where the protagonist learns the truth of the situation or comes to a realization
about himself or another character.

According to Aristotle, the aim of tragedy is to create catharsis – creating feelings of pity
and fear in the spectators so as to purge them of these emotions ensuring that they
leave the theater feeling cleansed and uplifted. There is a sense of completeness in
Aristotelian tragedies.

Main Difference - Aristotle vs Shakespearean Tragedy

Oedipus is an example of Aristotelian tragedy.

What is a Shakespearean Tragedy

Shakespearean tragedies were also influenced by Greek tragedies. Some similarities
can be noted between both Aristotle and Shakespearean tragedy. Shakespearean
tragedies also have a renowned or prosperous hero who experiences a reversal of
fortune due to a tragic flaw. Macbeth, King Lear, Hamlet, Othello, Antony and Cleopatra
are some of Shakespeare’s famous tragedies.
However, some differences can also be noted between Aristotle and Shakespearean
tragedies. Shakespearean tragedies do not follow the unity of plot; Shakespeare
interweaved many subplots into the play to make the plot more complicated and
realistic. The protagonists in Shakespearean tragedies usually face a tragic death, not
just a reversal of fortune. Moreover, these protagonists do not gain self- knowledge or
recognize their flow like protagonists in Aristotelian tragedies.

The inclusion of comic scenes is another difference between Aristotle and

Shakespearean tragedies. Aristotelian tragedies usually had a chorus which narrated
the scenes that take place offstage and they also provided relief to the spectators. In
Shakespearean tragedies, the chorus is replaced by comic scenes such as the porter’s
scene in Macbeth.