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Question
Why is macbeth considered a tragedy?
Hi, Beth,
Thanks for calling upon "Allexperts" for help in appreciating why Macbeth is considered a tragedy.
The literary definition of a tragedy is a work in which the protagonist is overcome by the antagonist---in other words, when the main character (whether villain OR hero)is overcome by his opposition (again, whether hero or villain) we have a tragedy.
Macbeth IS the main character and he IS overcome by those who oppose him.
The opposition (or antagonist) in a literary work need not be another person. If the main character has a human weakness like drug addiction or greed--THESE can undo him. An illness can be an antagonist. The protagonist is simply the MAIN character, whether good or bad in nature.
I hope this answer will serve your purpose.
Happy trails,
Randy
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Randy Sus
Expertise
I`m a retired high school English teacher from central Wisconsin. I taught Shakespeare for years and am very familiar with his writing style, his themes, his sonnets, and most of his plays. I taught Julius Caesar, King Lear, Richard the Third, and A Midsummer Night`s Dream for years. I`ve memorized many of the lines from these plays and I know many sonnets by heart. I`d be glad to respond to questions regarding Shakespeare`s life, works, and times if anyone desired such information.
Experience
I have a master's degree in education and I take most pride in having ENJOYED teaching for over 30 years. Not everyone can honestly say that. I coached undefeated high school soccer teams for fun too. I like public relations work and have served on P.R. committees for most of my professional life. I continue to do so in retirement.
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