Since the beginning of time, people discussed and analyzed the concept of the tragic hero in epic poetry and other stories. An epic poem consists of a hero of high caliber whose actions affect a nation or a group of people. The deeds of this hero must be exceedingly brave and have supernatural elements. Many of these stories first began as an oral tradition then eventually became written pieces of literature. “Oral literature comprises a …showed first 75 words of 1327 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1327 total…Aristotelean tradition, serves the purpose of purging the soul of the "fear and pity" which most of us carry around. Aristotle said that the hero, or at least the main character in a tragedy must be essentially good, but must bring upon himself his fall, due to a fatal defect, known as the tragic flaw. Both of these men proved to be commendable, noble men but some ruinous characteristic lead to their downfall. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ **Bibliography**