THE DEVELOPMENT OF ENGLISH TRAGEDY

Abstract:

This article examines the development of English tragedy from its early beginnings to its peak in the Elizabethan and Jacobean periods. It traces the evolution of the genre, highlighting the influence of classical traditions, such as Greek and Roman drama, on English playwrights. Special attention is given to key figures like Christopher Marlowe and William Shakespeare, whose works shaped the form and content of tragedy through complex characters, moral dilemmas, and dramatic conflicts. The study also explores how social, political, and cultural changes of the time influenced the themes and styles of tragic plays. Furthermore, the article discusses the transition from early moralistic and didactic forms of tragedy to more psychologically nuanced and human-centered narratives. By analyzing these developments, the study offers a comprehensive understanding of how English tragedy matured as a literary genre and its enduring significance in world literature.