Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Hamartia is a tragic flaw or error in judgment that leads to the downfall of a tragic hero in a literary work.
Related terms
Tragic Hero: A tragic hero is the main character in a tragedy who possesses noble qualities but also has a fatal flaw (hamartia) that leads to their downfall.
Hubris: Hubris refers to excessive pride or arrogance displayed by a character which often contributes to their hamartia.
Catharsis is the emotional release experienced by the audience when witnessing the downfall of a tragic hero. It allows for purging of emotions such as pity and fear.