Community Quote by Christopher Booker
““At the beginning of a full five-stage Tragedy, the central figure is always part of a community, a network of relationships, linked to other people by ties of loyalty, friendship, family or marriage. And one of the most important things which happens to such heroes and heroines as they embark on their tragic course is that they begin to break those bonds of loyalty, friendship and love (even if, initially, they may form other alliances). It is the very essence of Tragedy that the hero or heroine should become, step by step, separated from other people. Often they separate themselves in the most obvious, violent and final way possible, by causing other people's deaths.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Seven Basic Plots by Christopher Booker, 2004
Tragedy isolates the hero by breaking bonds of loyalty, friendship, and love, leading to violent separation and death of others.
In simple terms: Tragedy pulls heroes apart from their community, often causing death.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how isolation fuels tragic outcomes.
Themes
tragedy
heroism
relationships
violence
fate
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
literary
analytical
When to use this quote
- theater
- literature
- film analysis
- character development
Key Concepts
psychology
narrative structure
social bonds
Questions to Reflect On
- How does loss of community shape a tragic hero?
- What alternatives could prevent violent outcomes?
A Different Perspective
Isolation can be self‑inflicted, not just imposed.
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