Hero vs. Tragic Hero

Attribute	Hero	Tragic Hero
Noble Birth	Not always	Usually
Tragic Flaw	Absent	Presents a fatal flaw
Hubris	Absent	Often present
Downfall	May face challenges but ultimately triumphs	Meets a tragic end
Catharsis	May inspire admiration or empathy	Elicits pity and fear

Definition of a Hero

A hero is typically defined as a character who possesses noble qualities and performs courageous acts for the greater good of society. Heroes are often seen as selfless individuals who put the needs of others before their own. They are admired for their bravery, strength, and ability to overcome obstacles in order to achieve their goals. Heroes are often portrayed as role models for others to emulate, inspiring people to strive for greatness in their own lives.

Attributes of a Hero

Some common attributes of a hero include courage, selflessness, determination, and a strong sense of morality. Heroes are willing to risk their own safety in order to help others, even in the face of great danger. They are often motivated by a sense of duty or honor, and are willing to make sacrifices for the greater good. Heroes are also known for their ability to inspire and lead others, rallying people together to achieve a common goal.

• Courage
• Selflessness
• Determination
• Morality
• Inspiration

Definition of a Tragic Hero

A tragic hero is a character who possesses noble qualities but ultimately meets a tragic end due to a fatal flaw in their character. Tragic heroes are often seen as figures of great stature or importance, such as kings, warriors, or leaders. They are admired for their strengths and virtues, but their downfall is usually brought about by a combination of their own actions and external circumstances beyond their control.

Attributes of a Tragic Hero

Tragic heroes typically exhibit many of the same attributes as traditional heroes, such as courage, determination, and a sense of morality. However, they also possess a fatal flaw or hubris that leads to their downfall. This flaw is often a character trait such as pride, ambition, or jealousy, which blinds the tragic hero to the consequences of their actions. Despite their noble intentions, tragic heroes are ultimately undone by their own weaknesses.

• Courage
• Determination
• Morality
• Fatal flaw
• Hubris

Comparison of Hero and Tragic Hero

While heroes and tragic heroes share many similar attributes, the key difference lies in the outcome of their actions. Heroes are typically successful in achieving their goals and are celebrated for their triumphs, while tragic heroes ultimately meet a tragic end as a result of their fatal flaw. Heroes are often seen as symbols of hope and inspiration, while tragic heroes serve as cautionary tales about the dangers of unchecked pride or ambition.

Both heroes and tragic heroes are complex characters who face challenges and obstacles in their quests, but their responses to these challenges ultimately determine their fate. Heroes are able to overcome adversity through their courage and determination, while tragic heroes are brought down by their own flaws and weaknesses. Despite their differences, both types of characters serve important roles in literature and mythology, reflecting the complexities of human nature and the consequences of our actions.