Romeo: The Tragic Hero Like most Shakespearean plays, "Romeo and Juliet" exemplifies Shakespeare's astonishing comprehension and ability to write tragic plays. The simplest definition of "tragedy," a serious disaster or a sad event, blatantly describes the horrific story of two "star crossed lovers." While reading the fatal tale of Shakespeare's novel, Romeo and Juliet, a reader indulges in terrific medieval tragedy. Although the prologue by the chorus tells the stories conclusion, six distinctive characteristics of …showed first 75 words of 558 total…

…showed last 75 words of 558 total…stature, the punishment exceeds the crime, and produces catharsis. Like most Shakespearean plays, "Romeo and Juliet" exemplifies Shakespeare's astonishing comprehension and ability to write tragic plays. Although only three elements were discussed, there are six requirements a character must possess to consider him or her the tragic hero. While attempting to identify the tragic hero readers should identify the noble stature, tragic flaw, free choice, the punishment exceeds the crime, increased awareness, and produces catharsis.