Domestic Tragedy

Definition

Domestic tragedy is a genre of drama that focuses on the everyday lives of common people, highlighting their struggles and moral dilemmas within a domestic setting. This form of tragedy emerged during the transition from Restoration comedy to sentimental comedy, emphasizing emotional depth and the impact of personal choices on family dynamics and societal values.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Domestic tragedies often depict the collapse of family structures and the emotional turmoil experienced by characters, reflecting societal anxieties of the time.
2. Unlike classical tragedies that focus on nobility and grand themes, domestic tragedies center around relatable issues faced by ordinary people.
3. The genre gained popularity in the late 17th and early 18th centuries as playwrights sought to address themes of morality and virtue within a domestic context.
4. Key works in domestic tragedy often feature tragic heroes who face dire consequences due to their decisions, emphasizing moral lessons.
5. The evolution towards sentimental comedy saw a blending of domestic tragedy elements with uplifting resolutions, aimed at evoking empathy and reflection in the audience.

Review Questions

• How does domestic tragedy differ from classical tragedy in terms of its focus and character portrayal?
  • Domestic tragedy diverges from classical tragedy primarily by centering on the lives of everyday people rather than nobles or heroic figures. It explores relatable themes like family strife and moral dilemmas, presenting characters who experience genuine emotional conflicts. This shift allows audiences to connect more deeply with the characters' struggles, making the themes more accessible and poignant.
• Discuss how domestic tragedy influenced the development of sentimental comedy during its evolution from Restoration comedy.
  • Domestic tragedy played a significant role in shaping sentimental comedy as it introduced themes centered around morality, virtue, and emotional depth. While Restoration comedy focused on satire and the antics of the upper class, domestic tragedies highlighted personal struggles within families, prompting playwrights to explore more serious subjects. As a result, sentimental comedy emerged as a genre that combined these elements, emphasizing emotional resonance while still maintaining an uplifting tone.
• Evaluate the significance of domestic tragedy in reflecting societal values and concerns during its emergence in the early 18th century.
  • Domestic tragedy holds considerable significance in reflecting the societal values and concerns of its time, particularly as it emerged during a period marked by shifts in class dynamics and moral expectations. The genre's focus on ordinary individuals grappling with moral choices allowed audiences to confront issues such as family integrity, social responsibility, and personal accountability. This emphasis resonated with contemporary viewers who were navigating the complexities of rapidly changing societal norms, making domestic tragedy an important vehicle for exploring both personal and collective anxieties.

Related terms

Sentimental Comedy: A theatrical genre that arose in the 18th century, characterized by its focus on emotional appeal, moral lessons, and the depiction of virtuous characters facing challenges.

Restoration Comedy:

A style of comedy prevalent in the late 17th century that often emphasized sexual intrigue, social satire, and the lives of the upper class.

Tragic Hero: A protagonist in a tragedy who experiences a downfall due to a personal flaw or moral weakness, often eliciting sympathy from the audience.