Tragic Hero · English Literature

What distinguishes a tragic hero from a pure villain?

  1. Having a markedly greater intelligence and cunning than antagonists
  2. A complete and documented absence of any wrongdoing whatsoever
  3. Moral complexity and a genuine capacity for remorse
  4. A guaranteed and universally applied form of punishment for deeds
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Correct answer: Moral complexity and a genuine capacity for remorse

Tragic heroes display moral complexity and often genuine remorse for their actions. Villains typically lack this depth or capacity for self-reflection, which is what fundamentally distinguishes the two types.

Difficulty: Medium Question 14 of 20

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