Question

Define the term tragic hero. explain how macbeth is an example of a tragic hero, citing specific examples from the text to illustrate the character's tragic flaws.

Answer 1

A "tragic hero" is one in that the reader sees as accomplishing great things, but who also lives a pretty dreadful life in which he is either racked by guilt or is tortured in some other way. MacBeth is tragic because his guilt weighs so heavily on him after killing the kind and taking the throne. He has achieved his destiny which is heroic, but his mental state leads him to despair which is tragic.