Troy Maxson? Willy Loman? Tom Wingfield?
For this blog entry, decide which character most precisely fulfills the definition for a tragic hero as it's laid out below.
It may be that no character fulfills every single part of Aristotle's definition of a tragic hero -- but which character best meets the criteria?
You MUST REFER to PARTS of the DEFINITION BELOW when you are DEFENDING YOUR RESPONSE.
Extra credit for the strongest argument.
1. The tragic hero is a character of noble stature and has greatness. The character must occupy a "high" status position but must ALSO embody nobility and virtue as part of his/her innate character.
2. Though the tragic hero is pre-eminently great, he/she is not perfect. Otherwise, the rest of us--mere mortals--would be unable to identify with the tragic hero. We should see in him or her someone who is essentially like us, although perhaps elevated to a higher position in society.
3. The hero's downfall, therefore, is partially her/his own fault, the result of free choice, not of accident or villainy or some overriding, malignant fate. In fact, the tragedy is usually triggered by some error of judgment or some character flaw that contributes to the hero's lack of perfection noted above. This error of judgment or character flaw is known as hamartia and is usually translated as "tragic flaw" (although some scholars argue that this is a mistranslation). Often the character's hamartia involves hubris (which is defined as a sort of arrogant pride or over-confidence).
4. The hero's misfortunate is not wholly deserved. The punishment exceeds the crime.
5. The fall is not pure loss. There is some increase in awareness, some gain in self-knowledge, some discovery on the part of the tragic hero.
6. Though it arouses solemn emotion, tragedy does not leave its audience in a state of depression. Aristotle argues that one function of tragedy is to arouse the "unhealthy" emotions of pity and fear and through a catharsis (which comes from watching the tragic hero's terrible fate) cleanse us of those emotions.
(It might be worth noting here that Greek drama was not considered "entertainment," pure and simple; it had a communal function--to contribute to the good health of the community. This is why dramatic performances were a part of religious festivals and community celebrations).
51 comments:
Raven Smith- Tom Wingfield should be considered a tragic character because he had to take the responsibility of his family because thier father left them. Also because he was bold enough to leave home and follow his own dream. His only fault was not thinking about leaving his family, I mean actually leaving them and not coming back. He did not have the guts to just leave without ever thinking about coming back. He wanted to go back home but was just to ashamed so he just left and decided that he would rather be forgotten.
Jennifer Lampton- Troy Maxson is the most tragic character of the modern tragic heros. Not only is his name full of power and nobility, but his actions as well. He is a character who has survived life and has been a model father for his family. Despite having to deal with racism, unhappiness, and overall pain, he continued to provide for his family. By no means was he perfect, he did cheat on his wife and told her very nonchalantly that he did it, BUT he should not be condemned for it. He had alot to deal with in his past and his future. Through this whole ordeal, he learned that deep down his family loved him and that he did the best that he could with the the resources that he had. In fact, when Gabriel danced and the gates of heaven opened up for Troy, it was not a sad moment but a glorious one.
Priscilla Barclay-In my opinion Willy Loman is the most tragic hero. In his early years, his sons really looked up to him. Towards the end Happy still thought of him as a role model and continued to look up to him. He wanted his children to understand that they should not give up. He was pre-eminently great. He continued to encourage his sons. Even though it did not make much sense to an outside observer, we understand a tragic hero is not perfect and that is why that definition fits Willy. Yes, Willy did cheat on his wife, but he did not know how to embrace the things that were around him. He had a desire to have more, and he put his life on the line for it. He wanted his family to have success and live in this "American Dream." His punishment did exceed his crime. He did not really desire to die, but he was blinded by the "American Dream" and felt that killing himself would make everyone happy, especially his brother. For his wife to say that she could not cry at the end allows us to see we do not have to be sad.
excellent arguments so far. good use of the definition of tragic hero. Remember: just because a character says, for example, that they can't cry, doesn't mean that the author hasn't created an incredible tragedy. We must ask: Why can't she cry? It's not because she's not sad, is it?
Lori Moody
Troy Maxson is the tragic hero. He embodied strength and confidence, not only in his actions but his looks. August Wilson said he was a big strong man. The ways he provided for his family were many. He gained a house and tried to do right by his brother Gabriel the best he could, and he worked his way up at work from loader to driver He did all this during the 1940-1950s racist America. He had to be strong for his family. But he is only human, and he made the terrible choice hamartia “tragic flaw”, to have an affair with another woman on Rose. He felt trapped in his role as husband and provider for the family. He wanted some sense of freedom. He knows what he did was wrong but it does no good to dwell on what we should’ve done. We see August Wilson’s view reflected in Troy’s candid diction. His mistake leads to him losing a son, and alienating a wife. But he faces his mistakes. This is key. He could have done many things, like walk out, or not take in his love child. But he faces these consequences with his head held up high and continues to take care of the family the best way he can.
Precious Love Blackwell 05/06/08-Troy Maxson is the most tragic character of them all, because he has that powerful nobility. His name says most of it. Maxson, the alpha male. He loves his son, but the only way he can show that is through forceful actions. He was being prideful and strong. He also is a hero, saving his family. He provides for them. He puts a roof over their heads. He's been through a lot,especially in his childhood. The fact that he can survive beind on his own at the age of fourteen, and then survive living on the streets and jail,and that makes him a hero. In his adult years, he went through racism, and bottled up pain and unhappiness. He's also a tragic hero, because he's definitely not perfect. Troy didn't feel appreciated by his family, so he started to wander. Yes, Troy cheated on his wife, but in no way, shape, or form did that make his love for his family. Through this whole situation, Troy realized that maybe, just maybe he and his family were alike. They could only show their love in certain ways. Ultimately, he realized that his family did appreciate him. They loved him. Troy's death wasn't said either. Gabriel played his trumpet as usual, but this time it was different. Gabriel knew, and we knew that Troy Maxson was going up to heavenly, because those gates opened up.
Troy Maxson should be considered a tragic character out of the other two. His name says it all. He has been through many problems in life. Although his actions may seem irrational, he did it for the best of the family. He was destroyed by racism, but he proved us that a minority can be as good as a white person. I mean Troy did got promoted to being a garbage truck driver. He didn't want his son Cory to make the same mistake he did. That's why Troy is considered a tragic hero.
Breeanna Greska
Willy Loman is the most tragic character by far. He is the most desperate, the most oblivious, and the most punished. Willy was a good man who pushed himself to so many limits to support his family. He was not perfect in all the choices, he made, but he tried so hard. Willy fought for his dream all his years, and it is terribly tragic that the same dream that he thought had no fault was the one that stole his identity from him. The dream he thought would save their lives is the same one that drove him into insanity. Willy has absolutely no control as he watches his life unravel before him. The man lost his father and brother to far, isolated locations where Willy could never be. Willy lost whatever he wanted to be and failed in achieving what Ben and his father could. His desperate search for the dream built up his loneliness, and he ended up committing infidelity. The man lies and hurts, and soon all of these come back to him in flashbacks that he cannot control, the Dream haunting him forever. Willy does not even recognize the love his family is trying to give him! All Willy really wanted was to achieve the American Dream, be well-liked, and have his son follow in his footsteps. And to the end, he still doesn't realize its utter impossibility. The American Dream drives Willy so mad, that he imagines his own suicide would be something his son Biff would worship him for. Even in his last moments, he still fought the Dream. It is terribly tragic, but in a way, a lesson has been learned. Biff, after watching his father struggle and change from defeat by the Dream all those years, has realized he can have an identity. Biff has gained the knowledge that his true happiness will come from doing something he loves rather than fighting for something that is completely unattainable. However, Willy's son Happy doesn't realize this, and that make is all the more tragic that the generation is going to continue.
Shu Chen-I believed Tom Wingfield is the most tragic of the modern tragic hero. In the family, he has high status position. He is the man of the house and everything depended on him. He dislikes his work but still continue to work because of his family. He loves his sister, and she might be the factor that Tom didn’t want to leave his family and follow his dream. He gave up on his dream at the beginning and suffered in his job for his family. There are imperfection in Tom which is he being rude to his mother. “I am going to the movie,” but his departures were mainly Amanda’s annoyance. The hero’s downfall-Tom and his family’s relationship worsen. That somehow is Tom’s fault because he is the one who told his family that he will leave. He broke the family relationship. His angriness caused this error of judgment (hamartia). He could have just go to the movie and then come back like what he did before, but he didn’t. His misfortunate is not wholly deserved because Amanda is the one who forced Tom to leave the family. Plus, Tom has his own dream to follow. He is not selfish because he did take care of his family for a long time and gave up his own dream. So to me, Tom is the tragic hero.
Jimmy Chen- I believe that Willy Loman is the tragic hero. He was the man of the house and his family looked up to him as if he is someone important. On the other hand Willy had also looked up to Ben and Biff. However, as Willy gets older, his obsession for the American Dream continues and he eventually becomes abandoned and lonely. His mistake on having an affair cause his life to regret and become haunted by his past. His mistakes cause him to believe that he is hated by his favorite son, Biff. Then, however, Willy finds the truth of Biff's feelings towards him and was at last relief. In the end, Happy declares that he is "gonna win it for him" (Willy) suggests that history is going ot repeat itself.
I believe that Troy Maxon is a tragic hero. From his experience as a child, Troy becomes a man that is filled with honesty and with a capacity to work and not turn like his father. Troys strength keeps him going no matter what circumstances he has to go through. Troy was an excellent ball player but learned that the chance for a black man is not always equal during the time he wanted to play baseball. Troy learns that everything he strives for leads him closer to death in order to survive that is why he is a tragic hero. The racist society that Troy lived in destroyed his inspiration to become someone of importance to himself and his family. Troy shows the obstacles he went through which his family accepts or denies to follow in the similar dreams they are pursuing. Even though Troy is not perfect he doesn’t want his son to suffer the same way he did, living in a racist society destroying his dreams with rejection. Troy chose the wrong path by cheating on his wife but in realty no one is perfect if you have gone through so much as Troy has. Troy is a tragic hero.
Cheryl Muhammad- Troy Maxson is the tragic hero of them all. His name has a history of power and strength and as a father that is what he represented. He succeded at showing Cory how to be a man and do for himself. The tragedy comes from the fact that he was unfaithful to Rose who was such a supporting wife. Another factor in his tragic fall is his troubled past with his father. Troy's father never showed the love that a father should give so Troy never knew how to treat Cory that way. His choice to committ adultery and his lack of compassion as a father revealed him as a tragic hero.
Jason Liao
I consider Willy Loman to be the most tragic of the three. Willy’s chose to chase the American dream. This dream of success is what he believed would establish a foundation for himself and his kids. Willy worked and sacrificed for it. In return, he received nothing but countless arguments with Biff, having to borrow money from Charley, repeatedly dashed hopes of success, and death. Is that not too excessive for someone who is just trying to provide for his family? The dream drove him to great delusion and bitterness despite his good intentions for his family. It caused him to be lonely and have a lack of judgment which led to adultery. Blinded by the American dream, Willy eventually decides that his death is what it will take to get him close to his dream and that it will provide a solid foundation for Biff. Willy was blinded his entire life by the dream. However, Biff realizes through his father’s pursuit of the dream that it is not the correct way to go; he must chase his own dream.
Cindy Mui- (somehow my account doesn't work..)
I believe that Troy Maxson has the most characteristics of a tragic hero. Troy tries to be a powerful man of his dream, but in the end, he is unable to reach it. He chooses to watch over his family and protect them from what he has gone through in the past. Troy definitely did his best to give what is best for his family. In his past, he has survived living in jail with his father and supporting his present family. In the end, Gabe is dancing and in the text, it said that the gates of heaven opened. This meant that Troy had played his role on earth, and has been lifted to heaven like a hero.
Katarzyna Kalata
Tom Wingfield best meets the criteria for being the most tragic of the modern tragic heros. Although he only works in a warehouse, his dedication to his job enables him to hold his high status as the man of the house by providing for his mother, Amanda, and sister, Laura. Tom continues to go to work every day despite his hatred of his job because he understands the necessity to provide for his family due to his father’s absence. There are times when Tom has his faults such as his departures to the movies and returning home drunk. However, we cannot blame this man for yearning to escape a monotonous life routine that he finds no happiness in. When he finally decides to leave his family and receptive schedule, we are able to see his tragic flaw. His departure is not fully complete, however, for he continues to have memories of Laura. He left in order to escape, but he is unable to do so. His departure allows for Laura and Amanda to focus on providing for themselves instead of relying on others.
Tom Wingfield, was the tragic hero because he actually took it upon himself to persure his dreams, only to be "faithful" to him family. He's the only character of the three to do what what he wanted and actually learn from it. He also stood up for his dad in a sense, he was the caregiver & the provider; He's his family only hope. He gave up what he wanted to do to take care of his family...no selfishness at all...he's proably doing a little too much
Jami Smith
The modern tragic hero is Willy Loman. This man was completely blinded by the allusion of the American Dream. In fact, his downfall was a direct result of his own belief in attaining this Dream. We see that Willy embodies many characteristics of the tragic hero, according to Aristotle. Just as many other people in this world, Willy really thought that being "well-liked" would lead him to success and wealth. Willy did not want to believe that he maintained a position in the "low class." According to his last name, Loman, he is at the bottom of the social class status. He believed that there was hope for his family, and if he could not find this success, someone else in his family would. He put this responsibility into the hands of his son, Biff; this was his biggest flaw. Willy tried to push Biff into the trap, which was believing that he could easily get that Dream. Willy's failed attempts actually led Biff towards wanting to find his own identity. Although his intentions were purely good, Willy's belief blinded Happy and even Linda (she thought that see was finally "clear and free"). Happy saw that he could not reach it, but he felt that he had to do it to show that "Willy Loman did not die in vain" and that "he had a good dream, the only dream you can have" (p.112). Ultimately, the audience is completely sympathetic towards Willy, because, like Aristotle's definition of a tragic hero, we feel pity for his entrapment of attaining this unreachable dream.
BEN ZHOU
Troy Maxon is definitly considered closes to a trigic hero. Troy is considered the head of the house, the one that feeds the family, puts the roof on top and what he says goes. Although Troy is the alpha dog, he has his flaws of being over protective, trapping his son, and being over sensitive of society's motives. He forces his son to give up his dreams of playing foots ball because he is scared that his son would get hurt like he did in the past. He reacts this way because he has been damaged by society's racism, which forces him to be overprotective of his son to a state of entrappin him. Troys death leads us to feel pity because he ultimatley caused of death of himself. Troy Maxon meets all the criterias of Aristotles definition of a Tragic Hero.
Jamie Krzywicki
I think that Tom Wingfield fits the criteria of the tragic hero the best. Tom does not have a high class job; he only works in a factory but he still supports his household which makes him high class to his family. However, even though he despises his job he continues to work hard in order to support his family. He wasn’t really left a choice if he wanted to take care of his family; it’s due to his father’s absence. His major downfall is leaving his family after allowing them to become so dependant on him. Even upon his departure he still does think of his sister and how he doesn’t want to leave her. The reason Tom ultimately does leave is to fulfill his dreams, but he doesn’t do it selfishly. He loves his family and wants them to learn to be independent.
wojciech kubala- To me, I think that Willy Loman is the best fit for the title of "Most Tragic Hero". He lives his life thinking that the "American Dream" is achievable, when in reality, it isn't. Willy also lives with this false belief that everyone likes him and that his job is the most successful job to occupy. Willy just wants to help his family out as much as he can, but ends up with disapointment, and in the end, just when is all lost, he takes his own life for his family, which leaves the audience thinking that it is tragic, when in reality, when you see his family not cry, it leads us to believe that this story isn't so depressing.
Isaias Hernandez
The most tragic hero from the three would have to be Tom Wingfield. His whole life is revolved around his family and his job. He fits the first criteria of a tragic hero perfectly. He is the the provider for his family and also tries to do the most good by his sister. At times we can also sense he tries his best with Amanda but it always ends up hitting the fan. The imperfections that Tom has makes him the tragic hero. He goes out late, gets drunk, watches nothing but movies, comes back at at one or two in the morning, and a few hours later goes back to work. He's not the best guy for the job but he does it anyway because he has to. In a very weird way he's kind of like Jesus. I'm not very religious but Jesus died for our sins. In a way Tom is doing everything he does for his family. He ends up leaving them but only because he had to not because he wanted to. Deep inside he loves Amanda and through the whole play he showed his love for Laura.
Willy Loman is the most tragic character. He was seen as someone who did anything that he could to improve life for his family. He took extreme measures to try and obtain the one thing he thought would make his life and his family’s life better. Willy however was not perfect. His struggle to reach the American Dream forced him to do irrational things. He has lost who was and is now struggling to keep a hold on what is real. Willy feels alone in the world because he misses those that left him, like his father and brother, so he tries to feel loved by anyone, which leads to his infidelity. The struggle for the American Dream destroyed him. His name even helps emphasize how he would always struggle for his Dream. He was a low man, who would never reach is Dream. Willy’s only crime is that he wanted to make life easier and better for his family, but in the end the Dream got a hold of him and led to his demise. However, through Willy, Biff was able to understand that no matter what the American Dream is unattainable. He realizes that there is no point in searching for it because he will never have it. The fact that Biff knows the Dream is unattainable show that we should not feel pity because he was able to escape the Dream that Willy could not escape.
Abigail Ramirez - Willy Loman is the most tragic character. He was seen as someone who did anything that he could to improve life for his family. He took extreme measures to try and obtain the one thing he thought would make his life and his family’s life better. Willy however was not perfect. His struggle to reach the American Dream forced him to do irrational things. He has lost who was and is now struggling to keep a hold on what is real. Willy feels alone in the world because he misses those that left him, like his father and brother, so he tries to feel loved by anyone, which leads to his infidelity. The struggle for the American Dream destroyed him. His name even helps emphasize how he would always struggle for his Dream. He was a low man, who would never reach is Dream. Willy’s only crime is that he wanted to make life easier and better for his family, but in the end the Dream got a hold of him and led to his demise. However, through Willy, Biff was able to understand that no matter what the American Dream is unattainable. He realizes that there is no point in searching for it because he will never have it. The fact that Biff knows the Dream is unattainable show that we should not feel pity because he was able to escape the Dream that Willy could not escape.
Erica Castro- I believe the most tragic hero would be Willy Loman.
I believe he is the most tragic because he still believes that there is still more out there and has been chasing a tired dream without question for many years. Loman’s hamartia would be his inability to realize that the American dream is an empty one. His life is also truly tragic because his family allows him to pursue a dream they know is empty and can never be achieved. Willy is so utterly blinded by that dream that he encourages his sons to chase after it themselves. Willy doesn’t realize the dream is unattainable, he looks up to a man that was still working when he was old and dies alone. What is most tragic about his story is that his only way of achieving the dream was to kill himself so his family can reap the benefit of his death, despite all his hard work as a salesman.
I believe that Troy Maxson best fits the definition of Aristotle's tragic hero. I agree with Jennifer's detail about Troy Maxon, obtaining a strong and powerful name. His name connotes success, yet the common people can relate to him. He holds a high position at his workplace, considering his race back then. But on the other hand, he drinks with his best friend Bono for enjoyment. In this way the audience can identify with his flaws. The downfall of Troy is of course his own fault. This is when he is caught cheating with another woman. This was not fate, but a choice that Troy made. His error of judgment causes him to have a baby with another woman. His punishment of sleeping with this woman exceeds the crime, because he will have to live with his wife who resents him and bring another child into the world without her birth mother. The punishment ruins his relationship with his family even further.He now realizes his responsibility and learns from it.Even after he dies the audience is not left in a state of despair. I believe that Troy Maxon is the best choice for Aristotle's idea of a tragic hero.
Especially since he was not fated for tragedy.
~Anisa A~
Emily Vasquez-
Troy Maxson embodies the most tragic hero. We see that his entire life he struggled to gain a respectable status within society. However as Aristotle examines the ideal tragic hero, we see that his "high" position was fulfilled when it came to his family, but not toward society. Yet this is what creates his human mortality and shows the flaws he still has to battle with. He also chooses to understand that his former acts in life, for example going to jail, are what brought to be a wiser man. Throughout the play he grips on to his morals and values, which in the end we see causes his unfortunate demise. We also see that Troy's reputation is held strong after he reveals his most tragic flaw, his infidelity. Even though he knows he did wrong, he attempts to correct his mistakes and continue to be the responsible dependent of the entire family. His death brings out a relief though, because he chose his path and it isn't as if he could blame Rose or Corey, because when he demanded respect they gave it to him. Then again, Corey does begin to understand how the stability within the home was due to Troy's stern ways, making him a tragic hero.
Ana-Maria
Troy Maxson is the most tragic of the tragic modern heros. He does not fit criteria number 1 as he is not of noble stature. He does not have a high status or postition. He is a garbage man. However that is part of the tragedy. Augustine wilson suggests that Troy had the potentital to be of a higher status, but due to racial oppresion in society he never was able to attain a higher status.This is not his fault (critera 4).
Criterai 6 &7
Troy realizes that he made a mistake by opressing Corys dreams. Wilson reveals this by having troy keep Corys football in the same spot. Even though he dies at the end, Rose defends him and makes Cory understand why he was the way he was.
Troy clearly fits criteria 2 & 3 as well. Troy is a hard worker and provides for his family. He does what he's so posed to. However he is not perfect. We see tension between him and cory. Wilson also reveals the amount of frustration Troy has becasue he is trapped. He has a "routine" life and has no hope of going anywhere. This "flaw" of Troy's accounts for his downfall (criteria 3). This feeling of entrapment, frustration and need for escape is the reason Troy messes up; he cheats on Rose. It is clearly Troy's choice to cheat but we also see that it is a mistake. Wilson reveals this when Troy brings home raynell.
Marisa Saenz-I think Tom Wingfield is the most tragic hero of the three plays we have read. Tom is the head of his household and forced to be responsible for his family. This position shows that he is of the highest status because of his gender. Tom’s responsibility that was left behind by his father also leads to his own strive to escape the same responsibility. Tom is torn between staying in a situation that he is obligated to and pursuing what he want to do in life. Tom works to support his family in a job that he dislikes so much. He sees that his job at the warehouse will get him no closer to his dreams of adventure than sitting in the movie theatre.
He loves his family and feels guilty that his sister Laura cannot take care of herself. We see that Tom is not perfect. He fights with his mother constantly, smokes regularly and comes home drunk. We as an audience can identify with his situation, because all families have problems that they go through. Tom’s tragic flaw is that he disconnected from his family, and he can never return to a state of peace where he is not feeling guilt because of his decision. He chooses to runaway and destroys the bond with his family. Tom is always so angry especially since Amanda annoyance him so much. Similarly, Amanda is like a wife to Tom. His judgment is faulty when around her. Tom struggles with his guilt everyday he is away from his family. However, his decision to leave in pursuit of his dreams in order not be stuck in a place where he had no future does not deserve such a sentence.
At the end, Tom realizes that he will have to live with the guilt of abandoning his family. He realizes that he will get closer to an extent to his adventure. However, will lose the people he cared most about especially his sister Laura. Through Tom’s journey, we see that we have to decide what to do with our lives. We have to be able to choose what is best for ourselves. The consequences may be severe but the lack of pursuing your own dreams will be far worse than the guilt you may feel in the end.
Gigi-
Willy Loman is considered a tragic hero because he is blinded by the American Dream. He allows himself to become so clouded by his idea of what the American Dream is that he has a more difficult time pursuing it. Willy's life continues to be tragic because he blames himself for the overwhelming guilt of Biff's discovery of his affair. As a result of this, he feels he has sustained Biff of his dream to pursue sports. Willy was adored by Biff prior to the affair but after this the relationship between father and son quickly declines. Willy tortures himself with the constant flashbacks he recieves about his affair and brother and father.
I think Willy Loman is the most tragic character. Willy Loman life was never happy. His father left him at a young age, and Ben, the only family he talk to always tell Willy that he goes into the forest at 17 and come out rich at 21 may lead Willy to become more want to follow the unattainable American dream. Willy Loman at sixty five is still working and never experience true happiness. He is blinded for the American dream because he want his family to have a better life. He did all he could to please the American dream to have a taste of success. This lead him to become distance and have a weak relationship with his family. He loses the great relationship with Biff who always look up to him. In the end, he even commit suicide just so that he can get the family the fortune from his death.
Maria Murillo
Willy Loman is the most tragic of the heroes. Throught the whole play we see that the main thing that pulls Willy back is the fact that he lives in the past. The worst part is that he doesn'e even seem to realize it, so he cannot fix it even if he wanted to. Yeah, Willy did cheat on his wife but, hey, the definition says a tragic hero is not perfect.
Willy was full of good intentions. All he wanted was to achieve the American Dream and for his sons to succeed as well. He made a few mistakes along the way which hurt his family but he never meant it that way.
We can even see Willy's good intentions when he kills himself. His pusishment did exceed the crime because he did not deserve to die. He only did it because he thought this was the only way his family was going to be able to succeed in life making Willy the most tragic of all heroes.
Perla Cano-Troy Maxson is today's most modern tragic hero. Even though he, like many people today, made hurtful and consequential mistakes, he certainly admits to them and takes responsibility for his actions. His noble and strong character enables him to get a better job, which was never given to people of his social class, all because he had the courage to stand up to the racist employers. Troy Maxson is also not fully to be blamed for his actions; society is to blame as well. Society encloses Troy in a racist world that demolished his and his family's dreams. Troy does make the mistake of fathering a child with another woman, but he also finds a place to take care of the child when the mother dies. Troy is essentially today's modern tragic hero.
Although none of the main characters in the plays we’ve read fit the entire criteria of a tragic hero, I believe that Tom Wingfield is a best representation of the tragic hero. Tom, does not have a high status in the society he lives is, but he is referred to as the head of the household. His mom tells him that he can leave then as soon as he finds someone to replace himself. The family depends on Tom to produce for them; they are too dependent on Tom. We see that Tom is not perfect. He hates the job he has and is caught between the dependency of his family and the pursuit of his own dreams. Toms downfall is leaving his family to try to pursuit his own dreams, his punishment is not deserved, he provided for his family long enough and it was time for himself to break away.
- daniela varela
Jamie Islas
after much debate, i have to say that Tom Wingfield is the tragic hero. First of all, we have to keep in mind that everything started becuase of the absent father that in a selfish way, decided to follow his own dream, leaving his family behind. I feel thats a pretty childish thing for a grown man to do, wanting to have "fun" all the time and then just taking off, not taking any repsonsibilty for your actions. (yes Tom did leave in the end, yet contrary to his father, he at least showed his guilt, that no matter where he went, he always had his mother and sister on his mind). But back to what i was saying, Tom became the tragic hero in that he had to step up and take charge, all the responsibilty fell on him and him alone, and he made the biggest sacrifice, every day that he had to get up and go down to the hardware, making shoe after shoe, and having to come home to a nagging mother, and extremely timid sister. As humans we all have a limit, there is only so much we can endure, and it seems that Tom endured that aimless, repeative life for quite some time, and he wouldn't have stayed if he didn't really want to. There come times where everyone must do something they do not like, and there are always the opportunities present to simply turn back and walk away, Tom could have been like his father from the start, and simply have left his mother and sister to fend for themselves, but then we wouldn't have a story. We see that Tom, just like having dreams, had feels of consideration, though he may not have shown them in every moment, yet the mere fact that he went to work, came home, the fact that he stayed, shows how he really did care.
He is a tragic hero in that he had to live in conflict between his dreams and obligations/responsibities, between what he wanted to do and what he knew he had to do. williams chose to place this character Tom in a situation where he wanted to and could have left in many instances. Yet we see that no matter how many times he walks out of the house angry and claiming to go to the movies, he doesn't stray very far, and eventually comes back.
I feel it was the mother Amanda that drove Tom away in the end, he had run out of patients and could no longer live such a life where he was unhappy, so he left. Although we see that no matter what path he had chosen, he would have been unhappy and dissatisfied, had he stayed he would still be hearing those "rise and shine's" every morning, and when he left, he was still haunted by the thoughts and memories of those he left behind, which happened to be the only ones in the world that needed him most.
Estefania Martinez
In my opinion, Tom fits the definition the best. It's clear that he doesn't fit in at the warehouse or at home. He has a soul of a poet who needs adventure, and he knows that he isn't going to get anywhere if he stays. So, it can be said that he is "elevated to a higher position in society," because he is the only one who chooses to escape (besides his father).
It was Tom's own "free choice" to leave. If Tom wasn't the artist he was, and if he wasn't so hungry for adventure, then he never would have left. That was his "character flaw." His punishment does exeed the crime, because the poor guy finds adventure, but he is never truely free because of the guilt he carries for leaving his family.
This discovery becomes his "increase in awareness," and "gain in self-knowledge."
Melissa Chaidez-
Out of all three characters, I don't think anyone 100% fits the persona of a modern tragic hero, however, I think that Troy Maxson is closest in doing so. (1)Based on the first part of the definition, Troy Maxson embodies nobility in his name alone, as many others have already pointed out. He doesn't have a very high status position, yet he was awarded the position of the first black truck driver in his city.(2/3) Troy is definitely not perfect due to the fact that he cheated on Rose, his wife, which is a senario many of us can relate to because we have experienced it or most likely have known someone in the same situation. Troy knew what he was doing was wrong; it was his free choice and he decided to do it anyway, leading to a strain in his marriage. (4/5) Although Troy's punishment of Rose finding out and him having Raynel may not have exceeded the crime of him cheating, the reason he did so was because he found it as an escape to his problems. He was a different man while he cheated; a man that he enjoyed being. (6) Although we do end up feeling some pity and fear at the end of the play towards Troy, we are not totally depressed. We see that Cory turned out pretty succesful and that Raynel seemed to be doing well with Rose. Also, the gates of heaven open in the last scene when Gabe plays the trumpet, giving the audience hope.
Rob-Troy definitely fits the description of a tragic hero much more than Tom and Willy. First of all, his name could be associated with the legendary land in which the Trojan war took place. Thus, he could be seen as a warrior. Throughout the play, his nemesis is death itself. The tragic part about it is that he's guaranteed to lose eventually but still fights on, which makes him heroic. Troy in "Fences" is a strong, determined individual. His job promotion as a driver is a great example of this. He also makes sure to take care of his family. However, Troy possesses some tragic flaws. He could be a little too hard sometimes. For example, when he told his son cory that he didn't have to love him. That was a little harsh. He also cheated on his wife and was a little too honest with her. His tragic end was a result of his own actions, including his broken relationship with his son. However, at the end of the day, he made it into the gates of heaven, which suggests that he wasn't all that bad.
i believe willy loman is considered the most tragic character
althogh we later find out he was not of
""high" status position" there was a point at which the reader/ audience believed so so that qualifies for the character having been of high status or position.
We also see that he is not perfect by having had the affair on his wife which also happens to be Willy's downfall as we see he becomes filled with guilt after his Son walks in on him.Although some may disagree with his misfortunate is "not being wholly deserved"
one cant help but feel sympathy for WIlly at the end of the play.
The only part that probably conflicts with Aristotle's definition is probably the fact that WIllu never learns and understands that his son will not becomes a successful Salesman but by sacrificing this area it builds to Willy's sympathy.
Ultimately i don't believe the audience in a state of depression but makes us realize that people will fail at accomplishing the American dream and thats its something inevitable so in theory "cleansing" the audience of fear to fall victim to a similar event as Willy because the audience in theory will understand and reference the book if they are ever found in a similar situation. By understanding the situation we learn not to pity Willy completely because we understand that it was to some point his fault.I don't believe any other character(tom,troy) meets as many of Aristotle's criterion's as Willy
so by Aristotle's definition of the idle "Tragic Hero" Willy the Tragicest heroest of the three :D.
(Willy is the Tragicest heroest of the three :D.)*
this is Ricky by the way in case your are not able to decipher what the symbols are spelling out :D
Xieliang
I believe Willy Loman should be considered a tragic hero.
1)Though Willy technically is not of noble status, but he sees his job as a tremendous responsibility and he goes to work everyday with honor. He refused to do chores regular workers do. He sees greatness in the future of him and his family.
2)Willy makes mistakes like everybody else does, he cheated on his wife, who has been so supportive of him.
3)Willy's downfall is a result of his desire for greatness. He was unable to let go of the past, and keep striving for greatness when his is past his prime. He have to pass on his burden to Biff, which ruined Biff's future in the process.
4)Willy's ambition is only a result of wanting a better standard of living for him and his family. He is just chasing the American dream like everybody else.
5)Willy's death allow Biff to chase his own dreams. Willy's downfall also allowed Biff to see who he really is. Biff became more ambitious due to the tragedy of his father.
6)We are not left in a complete state of depression. We are glad to see that Biff can finally be the person he wants to be, and does not have to follow the shadow of Willy. He has been a failure his whole life, but now he has a chance to be successful.
Dewayne Perkins
This blog entry is pretty difficult because none of the characters fit all the criteria for a tragic hero. The first criterion for a tragic hero is that they have to have high status position of some sort and have nobility and virtue as a part of their innate character. Willy, Troy, nor Tom is of noble stature. Troy is a self defeated garbage man, Willy is a down on his luck salesman, and Tom is a life-less factory worker. Willy had a high status position of being a salesman in the perspective of a less fortunate person at the time of this play, which was in the post era of the Great Depression. Though one could say he had a high position he lacked the virtue and nobility that a tragic hero possesses. The same applies to Troy, he was a garbage man, which to people like Bono was a huge step for him, and he was the first black garbage man at his job. But he as well lacked nobility and virtue; he didn’t even have a driver’s license. Tom just didn’t have a high status position at all. The second criterion was that the tragic hero had to be able to be related to by regular mortals. Each character could be easily related too. We can relate to Willy because someone being consumed by a dream that represents greatness and good fortune is not something to far from reality. As with Tom we can relate to him because he is trapped at home, being forced to take care of his family. He had no freedom, no ambitions, he felt locked within his home. I know personally that I’ve felt trapped within a situation it seemed impossible to escape, without bad repercussions. And being African American I can relate to Troy. After being in a world with so much racism and disappointment, it’s hard not be skeptical of change. He acting the way he did because of the hard life he experienced. So from the following criteria, I think at this point the three characters are tied. The next criterion is the downfall of the character is based off free will. In fact, the tragedy is usually triggered by some error of judgment or some character flaw that contributes to the hero’s lack of perfection noted above. This criterion is also true for all three characters. Tom’s downfall was due to leaving his family, but he couldn’t escape the guilt that came along with it. Troy’s downfall was due to his belligerent attitude towards society and how he couldn’t seem to let go of that belligerence. Willy’s downfall was due to his unfaltering faith in an unattainable dream. The next criterion is that the punishment exceeds the crime. This is only true for Willy and Troy, not for Tom. This is not true for Tom because his punishment for leaving his family was guilt, which was pretty reasonable for such a crime. So, Tom’s out. Willy’s punishment was death, his blind faith for the American Dream caused him to do whatever he could to obtain that dream, even cheat on his wife. For this he became so consume with the American Dream he committed suicide for an insurance check. In Troy’s case, he lost his family, his respect, and friends. His punishment was excessive; he was punished because his ideals were different. He was a product of society’s racist ways. The next criterion is the there is something learned from the fall of the tragic hero. This is only true for Troy. Willy on the other hand died with the idea of the American Dream still strong in his heart; he actually died to make it easier for his son to achieve the American Dream. Troy on the other hand, regretted his decisions. This is showed in the way he acts with Raynell, also revealed when Raynell tell Corey that Troy never touched the football in Corey’s room. He was the only character of the three who met the most criterions. So I conclude he the character closes to a tragic hero.
Korlisha Roberts-
Troy Maxson is the most tragic hero out of the three plays because I think he's the one who had the most struggle being african american at such a prejudice and racist time in america. There wasn't that many opportunities for black people then but Troy kept a home for his family, a job, and not to mention that he was able to receive a promotion after going against the rules, and he did all this while not being able to read. He also had his flaw. Troy was an adulterer, he drank alot, and he wanted to hold his children back from their dreams because he was unhappy with the life he had to live. Nevertheless, Troy had both the highs and the lows and was still unhappy inside which is why he brought about his own death. At the end, when Troy died, he thought that he would be settling the battle with racism, the "devil", and the one he had with his own self.
Raven Robertson- Troy Maxson should be considered a tragic hero because she truly worked hard to provide for his family and make sure they had everything they needed to survive. He tried to protect them from racism and discrimination even though it became a sort of entrapment. He tried to be responsible as possible but ultimately ended up hurting himself and his family because he wasn't able to express love. He was at fault for betraying his wife, but he tried making it for it by keeping a roof over her head and clothes on her back.
Sergio Zavala-
I believe that Willy Loman best fits the definition of Aristotle's tragic hero. Willy was utterly blinded by the unnatainable and destructive American Dream that only brings him fake and empty promises. Willy Loman always flashbacks to his past because it was a time when his sons looked up to him, and he was successful. He tries to escape the failure and oppression in the present by escaping to his better times. WIlly was delusional towards his idea of being well liked equals success that made him unaware of the changes in the world. Also, Ben encouraging Willy to kill himself, to make Willy believe that that's what his family wanted. Although he did cheat on his wife, he was so delusional towards his American Dream that he would do anything to accomplish. The fact that it was a buyer, a representation of the American dream, helps us to see his desperate need to realize his dream. He was always thinking of his family, and thought that it was the best for them to be happy.
I would consider Tom a traggic hero because he lived a life that revolved around his family. He was not able to do the things that he wanted to and he also had no room in his life to live his dreams. At the end of the play Tom left his family so that he could accomplish the things that he wanted. But, in actuality, he was leaving behind responsibility and the people he needed to support. Therefore, he emded up with a lose/lose situation.
In my opinion, the most tragic hero is Willy Loman. His main goal is to obtain the American Dream which affects his relationship towards his family. He is a tragic hero because he works his hardest to support his family and he looks all directions to help his children succeed and become successful. Since he is just like every other person, he is not perfect. He showered his children with theries that Willy believed will make them successful even if it meant to destroy their own dreams. Willy didn't have a model to look up to nor had anyone to tell him good advice, which made him grow up independently. The loss of his father and brother kept Willy alone with only the thought to become successful like them. His mistakes for not appreciating the reality which were his children and the normal life that he was living, affected his relationship with his family. He didn't really encourage his children to receive the right education and be independent, nor follow their own dreams. Even though Willy kills himself in the end, he thought about his family. He wanted them to know that he loved them and he wanted the best for them. Even though all that his family wanted more than the money was his support. Willy did make negative decisions, but overall tried to make his family happy.
In my opinion, Willy Loman is a tragic hero. His obsession for trying to obtain the American Dream affected his relationship towards his family. He works hard everyday to support his family. For losing his father and brother in the past, he learned to become more independent and strong, along with the thought that he could one day be accomplishable like them. Just like everyone else, Willy is not perfect. He strives to accomplish his dreams and his family's, but is unaware of the importance his family holds against their own different dreams. He doesn't appreciate reality and his family, nor his normal life. He is mesmerized in believing that he could get a better life which doesn't make him pay attention to his family's perspective on their own dreams. He kills himself in the end of the play with his family in his mind, thinking that his death could lead his family to liking them. This shows them proof that his is willing to do anything so that his family could be happy and stable. For Willy mistaking love and success with money and materialistic things for his family to be happy was a mistake when all that his family ever wanted from the beginning was Willy's kindness, honesty and support.
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