Question

Which term refers to a character’s tragic flaw?

a. katharsis
b. desis
c. lusis
d. hamartia

Answer 1

The correct answer is d. Hamartia

Hamartia comes from Greek "to err" and it refers to a mistake that a character does that will eventually lead to their tragedy or demise.

Answer 2

Answer: d. hamartia

Hamartia refers to a personal trait of a character which leads him to commit a fateful error. This error typically brings about his downfall. Hamartia is also known as "tragic flaw." One common example is that of Hamlet. Hamlet's tragic flaw is his indecision. He cannot decide whether to avenge his father's death, and his delay brings about tragedy for everyone around him.