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CHAPTER 1
The Tragic Hero in Indian and Global Literature
Heroes in literature are diverse and multifaceted, embodying different qualities
and fulfilling various roles within narratives. Broadly, heroes can be categorized into
types based on their characteristics and journeys. The epic hero, often seen in ancient
literature, is a figure of extraordinary strength, courage, and nobility who undertakes
grand quests. Examples include Achilles in Homer’s The Iliad and Beowulf in Beowulf.
The romantic hero is characterized by a focus on individuality, emotion, and inner
struggles, often rebelling against societal norms. A quintessential example is Mr.
Rochester from Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre. The anti-hero lacks conventional heroic
qualities such as morality, idealism, or courage, yet captivates readers with their
complexity and relatability, as seen in characters like Holden Caulfield from J.D.
Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye. The tragic hero, distinct from other hero types, is
defined by their profound downfall, which results from their own flaws or mistakes.
A tragic hero is a central figure in literature whose downfall results from a
combination of their inherent flaws, moral complexities, and the consequences of their
actions. Commonly, tragic heroes are individuals of noble birth or high social standing,
possessing greatness that sets them apart. However, they are not perfect; their humanity
is revealed through a hamartia (tragic flaw) such as pride, impulsiveness, or a lapse in
judgment. This flaw leads to a series of events culminating in their downfall, which
evokes pity and fear in the reader. The hero often experiences an anagnorisis
(recognition) of their errors or flaws, though this realization typically comes too late to
alter their fate. The tragic hero's journey, steeped in suffering and emotional turmoil,
serves to achieve catharsis—an emotional purification for the reader, who empathize
with the hero's plight while contemplating the universal themes of human frailty,
morality, and the consequences of choice.
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1.1 The Concept of the Tragic Hero: An Overview
Aristotle's Poetics [1] provides the most influential framework for defining the
tragic hero. According to Aristotle, the hero must be a figure of noble stature whose
downfall, though partly influenced by external forces, is primarily the result of their
own actions. This downfall is neither wholly deserved nor entirely avoidable, making
the hero both relatable and tragic. Aristotle emphasized hamartia as the key factor
leading to the hero’s misfortune, often driven by hubris (excessive pride) or a critical
misjudgement. The hero also undergoes anagnorisis, a moment of self-awareness
where they recognize their error, but this realization often intensifies their suffering
rather than alleviating it. Aristotle's tragic hero aims to evoke pity for the hero’s
undeserved suffering and fear of the consequences of human flaws, culminating in the
reader’s emotional cleansing through catharsis. Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex exemplifies
Aristotle’s vision, with Oedipus’s noble status, tragic flaw of relentless pursuit of truth,
and ultimate self-inflicted suffering evoking a profound emotional response. Aristotle’s
model, rooted in human complexity and responsibility, continues to influence the
depiction of tragic heroes in literature, highlighting their timeless appeal.
The tragic hero, according to Aristotle, must belong to a position of nobility or
high social standing, such as a king, prince, or respected leader. Their greatness
magnifies the tragedy of their eventual downfall, as their elevated status makes their
fall more impactful. For example, Oedipus in Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex is a king
renowned for his intelligence and leadership, which heightens the tragedy of his demise.
A tragic hero possesses a flaw or makes an error in judgment (hamartia), which leads
to their downfall. This flaw often stems from hubris (excessive pride) or impulsive
decisions. Aristotle emphasizes that the tragic hero is neither entirely virtuous nor
purely evil but falls somewhere in between. This moral ambiguity makes them relatable
to the reader. In Oedipus Rex [2], for instance, Oedipus’s determination to uncover the
truth about his origins and his inability to foresee the consequences of his actions are
manifestations of hamartia.
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The downfall of the tragic hero is primarily caused by their own actions, rather
than external forces like fate or the gods. While external circumstances may influence
events, the hero’s decisions and character flaws are the primary drivers of their
downfall. In the case of Oedipus, his relentless pursuit of the truth about his parentage
directly leads to the devastating revelation of his guilt, showing how his own actions
seal his fate.A crucial element of the tragic hero’s journey is the moment of realization
(anagnorisis), where they understand the error of their ways or the true nature of their
situation. However, this recognition typically comes too late to avert their downfall. For
example, Oedipus realizes he has fulfilled the prophecy of killing his father and
marrying his mother, which leads him to blind himself as an act of self-inflicted
punishment. Aristotle believed that tragedy should evoke feelings of pity and fear in
the reader, culminating in catharsis. The reader feels pity for the tragic hero because
their downfall is disproportionate to their error, and fear because such a fate could
happen to anyone. In Oedipus Rex, the reader pities Oedipus for the horrific
consequences of his actions, which he did not intend, and fears the inevitability of fate
and human frailty.
Oedipus's tragic flaw lies in his pride, impulsiveness, and determination to
uncover the truth about his origins. He is unwilling to heed warnings and the advice of
others, especially the prophet Tiresias. His hubris leads him to relentlessly pursue the
truth, even when it threatens to unravel everything he holds dear. His belief in his ability
to control his fate, and his dismissive attitude towards the gods' will, is an embodiment
of hubris (excessive pride), which is a significant aspect of his downfall. For example,
when Tiresias tells him that he is the source of the city's troubles, Oedipus reacts
angrily, refusing to accept the possibility that he, the king, could be the one responsible
for the plague. His refusal to listen to others and his confidence in his own
understanding of the world act as key elements of his hamartia. While Oedipus’s
downfall is largely self-inflicted due to his actions, the role of fate is also crucial. The
prophecy foretold that he would kill his father and marry his mother. Despite his efforts
to avoid this fate by leaving his adoptive parents in Corinth—Oedipus unknowingly
fulfills the prophecy.
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1.2 Indian Tragic Heroes: A Study of Complex Fates and Moral
Struggles
Tragic heroes are not confined to Western literature; they hold a significant
place in Indian literary traditions as well, reflecting the unique cultural, emotional, and
moral landscapes of the region. In Indian literature, the tragic hero is often portrayed as
a deeply flawed yet emotionally resonant figure whose downfall stems from a
combination of personal vulnerabilities, societal constraints, and the inexorable forces
of fate. These heroes, much like their Western counterparts, evoke pity and empathy
through their struggles, while serving as a mirror to the human condition. Unlike the
Aristotelian tragic hero, Indian tragic heroes are frequently depicted within the context
of familial, social, or caste systems, highlighting the profound influence of societal
expectations on their choices and ultimate downfall.
Tragic heroes are not confined to Western literature; they hold a significant
place in Indian literary traditions as well, reflecting the unique cultural, emotional, and
moral landscapes of the region. In Indian literature, the tragic hero is often portrayed as
a deeply flawed yet emotionally resonant figure whose downfall stems from a
combination of personal vulnerabilities, societal constraints, and the inexorable forces
of fate. These heroes, much like their Western counterparts, evoke pity and empathy
through their struggles, while serving as a mirror to the human condition. Unlike the
Aristotelian tragic hero, Indian tragic heroes are frequently depicted within the context
of familial, social, or caste systems, highlighting the profound influence of societal
expectations on their choices and ultimate downfall.
One of the most iconic tragic heroes in Indian literature is Devdas, the
protagonist of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's novella Devdas (1917)[3]. As a literary
figure, Devdas embodies the essence of the tragic hero, with his life marked by deep
emotional turmoil, self-destructive tendencies, and unfulfilled love. However, before
delving into the details of Devdas, it is essential to contextualize the broader framework
of the Indian tragic hero, which often reflects themes of duty, sacrifice, and the
inevitability of fate. In Indian epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, characters
such as Karna and Rama exhibit qualities of tragic heroes. Karna, for instance, is a
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noble figure torn between loyalty and righteousness, whose tragic destiny unfolds due
to societal rejection and his own choices (Ganguli, Kisari Mohan, translator. The
Mahabharata of Krishna-Dwaipayana Vyasa, 1883-1896)[4]. Karna, one of the most
poignant figures in Indian mythology, exemplifies the tragic hero through his noble
qualities, harsh circumstances, and flawed decisions. Born to Kunti and the sun god
Surya before her marriage, Karna is abandoned at birth to preserve her honor. He is
raised by a charioteer, which marks him as a member of a lower caste. Despite his
exceptional skills as a warrior and his noble heart, Karna’s life is shaped by societal
rejection and an unyielding sense of loyalty. Karna is repeatedly humiliated for his low
birth, even when he demonstrates his prowess. For instance, during Draupadi's
swayamvara, he is rejected as a suitor due to his caste. This deep-seated rejection fuels
his resentment and alienation. Karna’s unwavering loyalty to Duryodhana, who accepts
him when others do not, becomes his undoing. He aligns himself with Duryodhana's
unethical actions, despite knowing they are morally wrong. Karna’s tragic flaw lies in
his inability to prioritize dharma (righteousness) over loyalty. For instance, he
continues to support Duryodhana against the Pandavas, even after learning they are his
biological brothers. Karna’s downfall is marked by his inability to escape his fate,
despite his virtues. His tragic death in the Kurukshetra war underscores the societal and
personal forces that render him powerless, evoking deep pity and admiration.
1.3 Devdas: The Modern Tragic Hero
Bharatiya Prajna’s paper, "Devdas, the Aristotelian Tragic Hero of Indian
Literature: A Case Study" (2017)[5], makes a significant contribution to understanding
the character of Devdas within the framework of Aristotelian tragedy. Prajna draws
parallels between Devdas and the classical concept of the tragic hero, as defined by
Aristotle. According to Aristotle’s theory, a tragic hero must possess a noble stature,
undergo a reversal of fortune due to a fatal flaw (hamartia), and experience a moment
of recognition (anagnorisis) leading to catharsis. Prajna highlights how Devdas fits this
model through his aristocratic background, his inner flaw of excessive pride and
inability to adapt to societal and emotional challenges, and his eventual downfall, which
aligns with the universal structure of tragic literature, thus positioning him as an
Aristotelian tragic hero in Indian literary tradition.
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Devdas comes from a respectable and wealthy family, but his nobility is not of
the same kind as Oedipus’s royal birth. While he is indeed of high social standing, his
sense of self-worth is deeply influenced by his emotional and psychological makeup,
rather than his position in society. His family's wealth and status play a role in his
development, but it is his internal emotional struggles that define his tragic path.
Devdas’s tragic flaw is rooted in his passivity, pride, and emotional immaturity. Unlike
Oedipus, whose fatal flaw is hubris (excessive pride), Devdas’s flaw lies in his inability
to act decisively in the face of love and loss. He repeatedly chooses self-pity and
escapism over facing the challenges of his life. His inability to confront his emotions
and take action is compounded by his reliance on alcohol as a means of coping with his
inner turmoil. When Devdas is forced to part from Paro due to his family's objections,
he refuses to act in a way that could bring them together. His pride and reluctance to
break free from societal norms prevent him from taking any meaningful steps to prevent
the separation. Devdas turns to drinking heavily after losing Paro. His indulgence in
self-destructive behavior only isolates him further, exacerbating his emotional suffering
and preventing him from healing. While Devdas’s downfall is largely self-inflicted,
external forces also play a significant role in his tragedy. The societal constraints and
expectations placed on him by his family, as well as the rigid caste and class systems,
prevent him from following his heart and marrying Paro. However, unlike classical
tragic heroes like Oedipus, who are driven by fate and prophecy, Devdas’s tragedy is
primarily a consequence of his own choices and emotional immaturity. Unlike
Oedipus, who experiences a moment of anagnorisis (recognition) where he realizes the
full extent of his tragic actions, Devdas's moment of realization is not about
understanding his fatal mistakes, but about recognizing his own self-destruction. As he
reaches the end of his life, there is an understanding that his inability to act, his
emotional fragility, and his refusal to overcome his weaknesses have brought him to his
death.
Devdas is a modern tragic hero whose tragedy stems from a lack of agency,
emotional weakness, and societal pressures. Unlike classical tragic heroes whose
downfalls are determined by fate or moral conflict, Devdas's downfall is rooted in his
inability to overcome his personal flaws, specifically his pride, emotional immaturity,
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and passivity. His story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of self-doubt, emotional
repression, and the failure to confront one's inner turmoil.
Unlike traditional tragic heroes who are often defined by grand, external
conflicts or moral dilemmas, Devdas’s tragedy is deeply psychological and internal.
His story explores the fragility of the human mind, focusing on the complexities of love,
pride, guilt, and emotional self-doubt. His downfall is not caused by external forces
such as fate or divine will, but by his inability to confront his emotions, a theme that
resonates with modern readers. Devdas’s psychological turmoil is driven by his
inability to cope with the separation from Paro. His deep sense of guilt, pride, and
emotional immaturity lead him to indulge in self-destructive behavior, particularly
through excessive drinking and withdrawal from any attempts to resolve his personal
conflict. This exploration of emotional fragility sets Devdas apart from more traditional
tragic heroes, who often face external conflicts with gods, destiny, or family.
Why Devdas is Unique among Indian Tragic Heroes?
1. Psychological and Emotional Complexity:
Devdas’s tragedy is rooted in his internal emotional struggles, not external
factors.His downfall stems from emotional immaturity, guilt, and pride, making him
relatable in a modern psychological sense.
2. Societal and Class Constraints:
Devdas’s story is shaped by rigid social structures and family expectations,
rather than divine fate.His love for Paro is blocked by class differences, highlighting
the impact of societal norms on personal choices.
3. Tragic Flaw of Passivity:
Unlike other tragic heroes who act with honor or courage, Devdas’s flaw is his
inaction and emotional withdrawal. His failure to fight for his love or confront his issues
leads to his self-destruction.
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4. Self-Destruction as Escape:
Devdas chooses alcoholism and self-pity as a way to avoid confronting his pain,
rather than seeking resolution.His self-destructive path highlights a modern form of
tragedy based on emotional escape.
5. Lack of Redemption or Catharsis:
Unlike traditional heroes, Devdas does not experience redemption or a moment
of clarity that could offer hope.His realization comes too late, and he dies in despair,
without resolution or peace.
6. Social Critique:
Devdas’s story critiques the societal norms of love and marriage, focusing on
the pressure of class and family expectations.His tragedy reflects how these norms can
crush individual desires and lead to personal downfall.
7. Enduring Legacy:
Devdas’s emotional torment, unrequited love, and self-doubt are universal
themes that remain relevant in modern times.His tragedy resonates with modern
struggles, offering a personal, intimate reflection on human weaknesses.
In the upcoming chapters, we will delve deeper into the character of Devdas,
exploring the nuances of his tragic journey. As we dissect his story, we will examine
the various elements that contribute to his downfall, including his emotional turmoil,
the societal constraints that shape his decisions, and the complex dynamics of his
relationships. Through these chapters, we will gain a comprehensive understanding of
Devdas’s journey from an innocent lover to a tragic figure, shaped by both his personal
flaws and the societal forces that ultimately seal his fate.
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References:
1. Aristotle. Poetics. Translated by S. H. Butcher, Dover Publications, 1951.
A foundational text that defines the concept of the tragic hero and outlines the
elements of tragedy, such as hamartia, anagnorisis, and catharsis.
2. Sophocles. Oedipus Rex and Antigone. Various translations.
Essential works of Greek tragedy that exemplify Aristotle’s tragic hero and
Hegel’s notion of moral conflict.
3. Chattopadhyay, Sarat Chandra. Devdas. Translated by Sreejata Guha, Penguin
Books, 2002.
A seminal novella that portrays Devdas as one of Indian literature’s most
iconic tragic heroes, delving into themes of love, societal constraints, and
emotional vulnerability.
4. Ganguli, Kisari Mohan, translator. The Mahabharata of Krishna-Dwaipayana
Vyasa, 1883-1896.
Discusses Karna as a tragic hero torn between duty and personal loyalty,
culminating in his downfall.
5. Prajna, B. (2017). Devdas, the Aristotelian Tragic Hero of Indian Literature:
A Case Study.
