Tragedia

Definition

Tragedia refers to a dramatic genre that presents serious and often somber themes, usually involving a protagonist who faces insurmountable challenges leading to a catastrophic outcome. In the context of 'La casa de Bernarda Alba,' this genre emphasizes the themes of repression, social norms, and the struggle against oppressive forces, showcasing the characters' inner turmoil and societal constraints that ultimately lead to tragic consequences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In 'La casa de Bernarda Alba,' the tragedy unfolds as Bernarda imposes strict control over her daughters, leading to intense conflicts and ultimately, devastating outcomes.
2. The play showcases the theme of social oppression, where the characters are trapped by societal expectations, particularly regarding gender roles.
3. The use of symbolism, such as the color black representing mourning and repression, enhances the tragic elements of the narrative.
4. The character of Adela represents youthful rebellion against oppressive norms, making her a key figure in the tragic trajectory of the story.
5. The tragic ending reinforces the consequences of repression and the inability to escape societal constraints, leaving the audience with a sense of unresolved despair.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of tragedy manifest in the relationships between Bernarda and her daughters?
  • In 'La casa de Bernarda Alba,' tragedy is deeply rooted in the oppressive relationship between Bernarda and her daughters. Bernarda's authoritarian rule creates an environment where her daughters feel stifled and unable to express their desires. This dynamic leads to intense conflict, particularly between Adela and Bernarda, culminating in a tragic climax where rebellion meets fatal consequences. The relationships underscore how personal struggles are intertwined with larger societal issues.
• Discuss how Federico García Lorca uses symbolism to enhance the tragic elements within 'La casa de Bernarda Alba.'
  • Lorca employs powerful symbolism throughout 'La casa de Bernarda Alba' to amplify its tragic themes. For instance, the use of color, especially black for mourning, signifies not only death but also repression and societal expectations. The house itself becomes a symbol of confinement, where freedom is suffocated. Through these symbols, Lorca deepens the audience's understanding of the characters’ despair and highlights the inescapable nature of their tragic fates.
• Evaluate the role of societal norms in creating tragedy in 'La casa de Bernarda Alba' and its implications for individual characters.
  • Societal norms play a crucial role in shaping the tragedy within 'La casa de Bernarda Alba.' These norms dictate strict roles for women and impose limits on their autonomy. Characters like Adela struggle against these constraints, which leads to intense emotional conflict and ultimately tragic outcomes. The implications are profound; they reflect not only personal failures but also critique broader societal structures that trap individuals in cycles of repression and despair. The play serves as a poignant commentary on how societal expectations can lead to personal catastrophe.

Related terms

Catarsis: A process by which the audience experiences emotional release or purification through the characters' struggles and fates in a tragedy.

Héroe trágico: A central character in a tragedy who possesses noble qualities but is doomed to fail due to a tragic flaw or fate.

Conflicto: The central struggle between opposing forces that drives the narrative in a tragedy, often highlighting moral dilemmas and societal pressures.