Date of Defense
5-9-1969
Department
English
Abstract
Tragedy is a universally recognized phenomena of human existence. Literary art, as a reflection of life, has dealt with this phenomena throughout the ages. Consequently, critics have tried to formulate a definitive theory of what constitutes tragedy. That they have not been successful is evidenced by the fact that new theories and re-interpretations of old theories are constantly being published. Some of these theories will be discussed to show that not only do they err in specifics, they also err in the various basic approaches utilized. Then I will proceed to develop a theory of tragedy based on what appears to be a reasonable and realistic approach. While the result may not be an all-inclusive "final answer," it should, nevertheless, produce new and valuable insights into the nature of literary tragedy.
Recommended Citation
Smith, Julianne Elizabeth, "New Thoughts on the Nature of Tragedy" (1969). Honors Theses. 1063.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/honors_theses/1063
Access Setting
Honors Thesis-Campus Only