Identify the elements of a comedic and a tragic plot. With the use of examples from both texts, discuss these elements in detail.

Answer 1

Comedic Plot:

1. Happy Ending: A comedic plot typically ends with a resolution in which the protagonist achieves their goals or finds happiness. In William Shakespeare's play "A Midsummer Night's Dream," the various love triangles are resolved by the end of the play, with the couples happily married.

2. Misunderstandings and Mistaken Identities: Comedic plots often involve misunderstandings and mistaken identities that lead to humorous situations. In William Shakespeare's play "The Comedy of Errors," the mix-up of two sets of twins creates a series of comedic misunderstandings and confusion.

3. Satirical Elements: Comedy often includes satirical elements that poke fun at societal norms or conventions. In Jane Austen's novel "Pride and Prejudice," the social satire of the upper class and their obsession with wealth and status adds to the comedic elements of the plot.

Tragic Plot:

1. Unhappy Ending: A tragic plot typically ends with the protagonist facing a downfall or failure, often leading to their death or suffering. In William Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet," the tragic ending sees the young lovers taking their own lives due to a series of misunderstandings and miscommunications.

2. Flawed Protagonist: Tragic plots often feature a protagonist with a fatal flaw that leads to their downfall. In Sophocles' play "Oedipus Rex," the title character's hubris and arrogance ultimately lead to his tragic fate of fulfilling a prophecy that he would unknowingly kill his father and marry his mother.

3. Catharsis: Tragic plots evoke feelings of pity and fear in the audience, leading to a sense of catharsis or emotional release. In Arthur Miller's play "Death of a Salesman," the tragic downfall of the protagonist Willy Loman elicits feelings of pity and fear as the audience witnesses his struggles and ultimate demise.

In conclusion, comedic plots often involve happy endings, misunderstandings, and satirical elements, while tragic plots typically feature unhappy endings, flawed protagonists, and a sense of catharsis for the audience. Through the use of examples from various texts, we can see how these elements contribute to the overall tone and impact of a comedic or tragic plot.