Lecture 5.6.0 - The Concept of Hubris in Drama
Lecture Overview
We are going to explore the concept of hubris in drama Greek trageies, discuss the Greek philosopher Aristotle and we will reach the final act in the play of Macbeth.
Tragedy deals with the big themes of love, loss, pride, the abuse of power and the fraught relationships between men and gods. Keep the following in mind while to work through the lesson:
1. Plot
The plot is composed of “clearly defined problems for characters to solve.” Events happening off stage are introduced through exposition (narrative dialogue). The playwright must create a plot that is both credible and astonishing.
2. Character
Characters provide the motivations (reasons) for the events of the plot. “Vivid characters” face and overcome “obstacles that we can recognize.” They provide the vehicle for conflict.
3. Theme
4. Language
“Vivid characters” facing and overcoming recognizable obstacles need to express themselves in “heightened language.”
5. Rhythm
Plot, character, language, and spectacle all have their individual rhythms in time. The combination of all these rhythms create the impelling force of the play leading to a final climax. Rhythm creates mood.