Discuss the salient features of the mature Elizabethan tragedy. [British Drama (2018-19) Assignment 1]

The mature Elizabethan tragedy is a form of drama that reached its peak during the Elizabethan era in England, and is characterized by several distinct features. Some of the salient features of this form of drama are:

The tragic hero: The Elizabethan tragedy is typically centered around a tragic hero, who is often of noble birth and possesses a tragic flaw, such as hubris or ambition, that leads to their downfall. The audience is meant to sympathize with the tragic hero and feel a sense of catharsis when they meet their tragic end.

The plot: The plot of an Elizabethan tragedy is often complex and driven by a series of interrelated events that lead to the tragic outcome. These events are often influenced by the actions of the tragic hero, as well as the actions of other characters in the play.

Themes of fate and destiny: Fate and destiny are central themes in Elizabethan tragedy, and the tragic hero is often depicted as being subject to forces beyond their control. The audience is meant to grapple with questions of free will and determinism as they watch the tragic events unfold.

Moral ambiguity: The Elizabethan tragedy often presents a morally ambiguous world, where characters are driven by conflicting desires and motivations. The audience is left to ponder the moral implications of the tragic events, and to consider the complex motivations of the characters involved.

Language and rhetoric: Elizabethan tragedy is known for its use of language and rhetoric, with characters often delivering long, poetic speeches that explore the deeper themes and emotions of the play.

Some of the most famous examples of Elizabethan tragedy include William Shakespeare's "Hamlet," "Othello," and "Macbeth," as well as Christopher Marlowe's "Doctor Faustus" and John Webster's "The Duchess of Malfi." These works exemplify the key features of the mature Elizabethan tragedy, and continue to be studied and performed today.