Tragedy

"Tragedy" by Ashley H. Thorndike is an early 20th-century literary exploration that follows the historical path of tragic English plays, marking its crucial role in shaping both theater and literature up to the mid-1800s. It identifies the unique hallmarks of tragedy, setting it apart from other forms of drama through its intense look at the human condition, particularly around suffering, and moral battles, which leads to the transformation of characters facing immense problems, while also nodding to the lasting impact of ancient ideas on the modern understanding of tragic storytelling, preparing readers for a detailed analysis of important writers and their creations. The author shines a light on the neglected eras of the 1700 - 1800s and is a must-read comprehensive guide into the world of tragedy.