Uncovering Tragic Flaws: A Study of Shakespearean Characters (Assignment - 101)

 Uncovering Tragic Flaws: A Study of Shakespearean Characters

Table of contents 

• Personal Information 

• Assignment Details 

• Abstract 

• Keywords 

• Introduction 

• Understanding Tragic Flaw 

• Significance of Tragic flaw

• Ambition of Macbeth

• Indecisiveness of Hamlet 

• Jealousy of Othello 

• Conclusion 

• References 

Personal Information 

Name - Bhumiba Gohil 

Batch - M.A. Sem 1 (2023-2025)

Enrollment Number - 5108230016

Email Address - bhumibagohil333@gmail.com 

Roll Number - 4

 

Assignment Details 

Topic - Uncovering Tragic Flaws: A Study of Shakespearean Characters

Paper -Literature of the Elizabethan and Restoration Periods

Paper Number - 101

Subject Code - 22392

Submitted to - Smt. S.B. Gardi Department of English M.K.B.U.

Date of Submission - 1 December 2023

Abstract 

William Shakespeare’s masterful portrayal of tragic heroes, and heroines has captivated audiences for centuries. Central to the allure of these characters is their inherent duality, their embodiment of both admirable virtues and tragic flaws. This assignment delves into the intricate layers of Shakespearean tragedies, examining the faults that lead to the downfall of iconic characters. Exploring the complexities of human nature portrayed in these timeless works, it investigates the tragic flaws as pivotal elements, shaping the narrative in character development within Shakespeare’s plays.

Key Words 

Tragic Flaw, Shakespearean Characters, Tragedy, Ambition, Indecisiveness, Jealousy. 

Introduction 

Delving into the depths of Shakespearean tragedies unveils a profound tapestry of human frailties and fatal imperfections. Within the framework of these timeless works, the concept of tragic flaw stands as a beacon, guiding us through the intricate mazes of human nature and the inexorable consequences of character imperfections. This assignment embarks on a meticulous journey to unravel the essence of tragic flaws within Shakespeare's iconic characters, focusing on the compelling narratives of 'Macbeth,' 'Hamlet,' and 'Othello.' By meticulously dissecting these tragedies and the characters therein, this exploration aims to illuminate the underlying threads of hubris, ambition, and moral failings that culminate in the downfall of these protagonists. These iconic figures serve as mirrors reflecting not just their individual flaws but also the broader facets of humanity, inviting us to contemplate the complexities of our own virtues and vulnerabilities.

Understanding Tragic Flaw 

In literature, a tragic flaw is a character defect that leads to the downfall of the protagonist in a tragedy. This flaw is not necessarily a moral failing, but rather a weakness or predisposition that ultimately brings about the tragic hero’s demise.

The concept of the tragic flaw originated in ancient Greece with Aristotle's work "Poetics," where he described it as an essential element of a tragic plot. The term "hamartia" is derived from the Greek verb "hamartanein," which means "to miss the mark" or "to err." In Aristotle's view, the tragic flaw was not a punishment for wrongdoing but rather a consequence of the hero's own choices and actions. He believed that the tragic flaw should be closely related to the hero's virtues, making their downfall all the more tragic and relatable to the audience.

(Aristotle)

Significance of Tragic Flaw

The tragic flaw plays a crucial role in tragedy, serving several important purposes. It adds depth and complexity to the protagonist, making them more than just a one-dimensional character. It allows the audience to see the hero's strengths and weaknesses, making them more relatable and empathetic.

The tragic flaw drives the plot of the tragedy, creating tension and suspense as the hero's actions lead them closer to their downfall. It creates a sense of inevitability, as the audience anticipates the consequences of the hero's flawed choices. It allows the playwright to explore universal themes such as hubris, ambition, fate, and the consequences of human error. It prompts the audience to reflect on these themes and consider their own potential for similar flaws. The tragic flaw can evoke a sense of pity and fear in the audience, leading to a cathartic release of emotions. This catharsis can be both powerful and transformative, as it allows the audience to confront their own fears and mortality.

In addition to these specific purposes, the tragic flaw also plays a broader role in tragedy by providing a framework for understanding the human condition. It reminds us that even the greatest heroes are not without their flaws, and that these flaws can have devastating consequences. The tragic flaw also highlights the fragility of human existence, and the delicate balance between virtue and vice.

By understanding the significance of the tragic flaw, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the power of tragedy as a literary form. Tragedy allows us to confront difficult truths about ourselves and the world around us, and it can provide us with valuable insights into the human condition.

Ambition of Macbeth 

Macbeth is a tragedy by William Shakespeare, written in 1606. It dramatizes the damaging physical and psychological effects of political ambition on those who seek power. Before we explore the tragic flaw of Macbeth, here is a brief summary of the play: A group of witches predicts at the start of the play that Macbeth would rise to become Thane of Cawdor and eventually king of Scotland. This prophecy excites him, and he starts to plan how to make it happen. His equally ambitious and cunning wife, Lady Macbeth, also gives him encouragement. Before long, Macbeth assassinates King Duncan and usurps the throne for himself. But he is instantly overcome with paranoia and guilt. He worries that someone may find out about his transgression and usurp his throne. He also starts to have doubts about Banquo and other members of his circle of friends and allies. Ultimately, Macbeth murders Banquo, but this just makes him more paranoid. He turns into a despotic leader and starts to lose the trust of his subjects. In the end, Macduff kills Macbeth in combat after spearheading an uprising against him. Guilt drives Lady Macbeth insane, leading her to end her own life.

Macbeth's tragic flaw, the fatal character trait that leads to his downfall, is his unbridled ambition, an insatiable desire for power that consumes him and drives him to commit heinous acts. This ambition is not inherently evil, as it can motivate individuals to achieve great things. However, in Macbeth's case, it becomes a destructive force that overrides his moral compass and leads him down a path of destruction. Throughout the play, Macbeth's ambition is fueled by external factors, such as the witches' prophecy and Lady Macbeth's manipulation. However, it is ultimately his own susceptibility to these influences and his inability to control his desires that lead to his tragic downfall.

The witches' prophecy naming Macbeth as Thane of Cawdor and future king triggers his ambition, becoming the catalyst for his downfall. Rather than a direct command, it awakens a long-buried desire within him, causing an internal conflict. Initially excited yet terrified by the prophecy's implications, Macbeth's thirst for power overrides his fear, leading him to succumb to the temptation and set in motion the tragic events that follow.

Lady Macbeth significantly amplifies Macbeth's ambition, embodying ruthless determination to achieve their goals. Recognizing Macbeth's hesitance, she manipulates his insecurities, goading him into action. In Act I, Scene VII, her powerful soliloquy challenges Macbeth's masculinity, portraying ambition as strength and his hesitation as weakness, effectively pushing him towards decisive action.

Macbeth's tragic downfall is inevitable due to his unchecked ambition and moral decay, isolating him from society and leaving him vulnerable. His tyranny alienates his subjects, and his paranoia makes him a target for adversaries. In the final showdown with Macduff, Macbeth's hubris proves fatal. Believing himself invincible due to the witches' prophecy, he underestimates Macduff. However, Macduff reveals his unique birth, fulfilling the witches' condition and exposing Macbeth's vulnerability. Macbeth's uncontrolled ambition leads to his demise. Consumed by power, he neglects his moral compass, committing atrocious acts that isolate him and seal his fate. His tragic journey serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of unchecked ambition and the significance of moral integrity.

(Booth)

Indecisiveness of Hamlet  

Hamlet is a tragedy by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written between 1599 and 1601. It is considered one of his greatest works and one of the most influential works of literature in the English language. The play begins with Hamlet returning to Denmark to attend his father's funeral. He is immediately suspicious of his uncle Claudius, who married his mother Gertrude just two months after his father's death. Hamlet is visited by the ghost of his father, who confirms Hamlet's suspicions and tells him to seek revenge for his murder. Hamlet is determined to avenge his father, but he is also torn between his desire for revenge and his moral reservations about killing. Hamlet decides to feign madness in order to conceal his true intentions from Claudius. He begins to act strangely and erratically, and he alienates his friends and family. Claudius suspects that Hamlet is pretending to be mad, and he tries to find out what Hamlet is up to. He sends Polonius to spy on Hamlet, and he also arranges for Hamlet to be sent to England, hoping to get rid of him. However, Hamlet outwits Claudius and returns to Denmark. He confronts Claudius with the truth about his father's murder, and they engage in a duel. In the duel, both Hamlet and Claudius are killed.

Hamlet's tragic flaw is his inability to act decisively. This indecisiveness, often manifested as procrastination and overthinking, prevents him from taking action and ultimately leads to his tragic demise. Throughout the play, Hamlet's inaction is evident in various critical situations. He struggles to avenge his father's murder, delaying his decision and allowing his uncle Claudius to consolidate his power. He fails to act on his suspicions of Claudius's guilt, allowing doubt and indecision to cloud his judgment.

The ghost of King Hamlet appears, revealing the truth of his murder by Claudius. This sparks Hamlet's quest for revenge, but his indecisiveness stalls his action. Initially shocked and doubtful of the ghost's authenticity, Hamlet's hesitation gives Claudius time to fortify his position, complicating Hamlet's ability to act swiftly. Hamlet's chronic overthinking and procrastination hinder his ability to act decisively. Throughout the play, he incessantly contemplates his situation, dissecting every detail and motive, leading to a state of paralysis. His introspective soliloquies expose this internal struggle. He analyse his motives, questions reality, and ponders the consequences of action. This introspection, though insightful, further feeds his inability to act.

Hamlet's inaction isn't solely due to overthinking but also rooted in moral considerations. He grapples with the ethics of revenge, fearing moral corruption if he avenges his father's murder by taking another life. His moral dilemma surfaces in Act III, Scene III, where he ponders killing Claudius. He weighs the consequences for both himself and Claudius's soul. This moral struggle prevents impulsive action, adding to his indecisiveness. Hamlet's inaction has devastating consequences. His procrastination allows Claudius to strengthen his position, while his indecisiveness leads to fatal mistakes. His delayed action results in the deaths of Ophelia, Polonius, and ultimately himself. In the final scene, Hamlet's indecisiveness leads to his own death. He engages in a duel with Laertes, only to discover that Laertes's sword is poisoned and that Gertrude has accidentally consumed poison intended for Hamlet. Hamlet's realisation comes too late, and he succumbs to the poison, his inaction leading to his tragic demise.

Hamlet's tragic flaw, his inability to act decisively, is the driving force behind his downfall. His overthinking, procrastination, and moral considerations prevent him from taking timely action, leading to a series of tragic consequences and ultimately his own death. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of indecisiveness and the importance of timely action.

(Bradley)

Jealousy of Othello 

Othello is a timeless tragedy written by Shakespeare. It is a complex play that explores a number of themes, including jealousy, racism, and manipulation. The play begins with Iago plotting to destroy Othello. He is motivated by a number of factors, including jealousy of Cassio, resentment over not being promoted to lieutenant, and a desire to see Othello fall from grace. Iago sets his plan in motion by planting seeds of doubt in Othello's mind about Desdemona's fidelity. He tells Othello that Desdemona is having an affair with Cassio, and he provides evidence to support his claim. Othello is easily manipulated because he is already insecure about his race and his position in Venetian society. He is also deeply in love with Desdemona, and he cannot bear the thought of her being unfaithful. Othello's jealousy consumes him, and he begins to act irrationally. He accuses Desdemona of adultery, and he treats her with cruelty and suspicion. Desdemona is devastated by Othello's behavior, but she remains loyal to him. She tries to convince him of her innocence, but he is too far gone. In a fit of rage, Othello kills Desdemona. He then realizes the truth about Iago's villainy, and he kills Iago in revenge. Othello is overcome with remorse, and he takes his own life. The play ends with a chorus of characters lamenting the tragic events that have unfolded.

Othello's tragic flaw, the fatal character trait that leads to his downfall, is his susceptibility to jealousy. This intense and destructive emotion, often triggered by suspicion and insecurity, consumes Othello and drives him to commit heinous acts, ultimately leading to his tragic demise. Throughout the play, Othello's susceptibility to jealousy is evident in various situations. He readily accepts Iago's insinuations about Desdemona's infidelity, allowing his insecurities and suspicions to cloud his judgment. He becomes consumed by the idea of Desdemona's betrayal, neglecting evidence to the contrary and falling prey to Iago's manipulation.

Iago, a cunning antagonist, significantly amplifies Othello's jealousy. He skillfully sows seeds of doubt about Desdemona's loyalty by exploiting Othello's insecurities. Using subtle hints and staged events, like in Act III, Scene III, where he fabricates Desdemona giving Cassio a token of Othello's love, Iago effectively twists Othello's perceptions, triggering his consuming jealousy. Othello's susceptibility to jealousy stems from deep-seated insecurities rooted in his outsider status as a Moor in Venetian society. Subjected to prejudice, he's sensitive to perceived slights, fueling doubts about his worth and ability to retain Desdemona's love. His interactions with Iago reveal these insecurities. Seeking validation, Othello readily accepts Iago's reassurance and flattery, trying to quell doubts about his position and relationship. This vulnerability makes him an easy target for Iago's manipulation.

Othello's unchecked jealousy leads to a series of devastating consequences. Consumed by the idea of Desdemona's infidelity, he becomes paranoid and irrational, accusing her of betrayal and ultimately murdering her in a fit of rage. Othello's jealousy not only destroys his relationship with Desdemona but also leads to his own self-destruction. Upon realizing the truth about Iago's manipulation and his own tragic mistake, he is overcome with remorse and takes his own life.

Othello's tragic downfall is inevitable, as his susceptibility to jealousy and his vulnerability to manipulation render him susceptible to Iago's schemes. His inability to control his emotions and his tendency to act impulsively lead to a series of tragic events, culminating in his own demise. Othello's tragic journey serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked jealousy and the importance of trust and open communication in relationships. It also highlights the destructive power of manipulation and the importance of critical thinking and discernment in the face of suspicion and doubt.

(Golden)

Conclusion

Culminating in the exploration of 'Macbeth,' 'Othello,' and 'Hamlet,' this journey through Shakespearean tragedies has unveiled the intricacies of tragic flaws embedded within the human condition. The unraveling of these iconic characters has not only exposed their fatal imperfections but also offered a mirror reflecting our own vulnerabilities and complexities. As the curtains draw to a close on this assignment, the resonance of these tragic flaws reverberates beyond the confines of literature. The cautionary tales woven within these narratives serve as timeless reminders of the delicate balance between ambition and downfall, hubris and humility, indecision and action. The universal relevance of these flaws transcends epochs, urging introspection and contemplation among audiences of all eras.

The enduring legacy of Shakespeare's tragedies lies not just in the brilliance of their storytelling but in their profound depiction of the human psyche. Through the lens of tragic flaws, we are compelled to confront our own inherent imperfections and, in doing so, navigate the labyrinth of our aspirations and shortcomings. Ultimately, this exploration serves as a testament to the enduring power of literature to illuminate the complexities of human nature, offering invaluable insights that continue to resonate with audiences, generation after generation."

References:-

Aristotle. Aristotle's poetics. Edited by James Hutton, translated by James Hutton, Norton, 1982.

Booth, Wayne C. “MACBETH AS TRAGIC HERO.” The Journal of General Education, vol. 6, no. 1, 1951. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/27795368.

Bradley, Andrew Cecil. Shakespearean Tragedy: Lectures on Hamlet, Othello, King Lear, Macbeth. St. Martin's Press, 1985.

Golden, Leon. “Othello, Hamlet, and Aristotelian Tragedy.” Shakespeare Quarterly, vol. 35, no. 2, 1984. JSTOR, https://doi.org/10.2307/2869923.

Haupt, G. E. ““A NOTE ON THE TRAGIC FLAW AND CAUSATION IN SHAKESPEAREAN TRAGEDY.” Interpretations, vol. 5, no. 1, 1973, p. 13. http://www.jstor.org/stable/23239812.

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