Which of these is a common criticism of comic relief in Shakespearean tragedy, particularly by Neoclassical critics?
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Correct answer: It violates the 'unity of action' and the purity of the tragic genre
Neoclassical critics often felt that mixing 'low' comedy with 'high' tragedy was indecorous. They preferred 'pure' tragedy, whereas Shakespeare's style was noted for its 'mingled drama' of joy and sorrow.
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More Comic Relief questions
- In 'Antony and Cleopatra', the character of the Clown who brings the asps to Cleopatra provides comic relief through:
- How does 'Dramatic Irony' often interact with 'Comic Relief' in Shakespeare?
- In 'The Merchant of Venice', Launcelot Gobbo's debate with his own conscience provides comic relief from:
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- In 'King Lear', why is the Fool’s humor considered 'bitter' comic relief?
- Which term describes the juxtaposition of comic and tragic elements that is a hallmark of the Shakespearean style?