SOURCE: THE CRUCIBLE
Using Aristotle’s definition of a TRAGIC HERO and evidence from The Crucible, argue that John Proctor is or is not a TRAGIC HERO.
ARISTOTLES DEFINITION: A tragic hero must evoke pity, the best way to do this is to create an imperfect hero. Aristotle believes that people are more apt to find a character appealing if the character has flaws. In order to be a tragic hero, not only must the character have something bad happen to them, but the character must have a tragic flaw (physical or moral weakness).
Directions: Write an essay of a minimum of 4- 5 paragraphs (introduction, 2-3 body paragraphs, conclusion) that answer the question is John Proctor a tragic hero according to Aristotle’s definition (including the 4 character traits). The essay must include a claim/thesis. There should be sufficient evidence (minimum of 4 citations/quotes) from the play present in your essay.
body paragraph one- respectable
body paragraph two- flaw- too proud to admit adultery
body paragraph three-tries to right his wrong, suffers a tragedy, & gains our respect
REQUIREMENTS:
1. Must make connections between textual support and overall main idea/ theme and thesis. Moves beyond WHAT happens and analyzes the WHY. Writer has expressed unique insight, depth of thought, resulting in a convincing and enlightening paper.
2. Abundant use of textual support from the play adds to the power of the essay. Support is applicable to writer’s main ideas and is used to guide the essay. Support is thoroughly explained and elaborated upon.
3. Overall fluent and focused essay. Paragraphs are framed with connections to claim/thesis and are organized by idea. Transitions aid in fluency and writer’s prose incorporates textual support in a sophisticated manner. Intro and conclusion aid in power of the essay.
4. Essay uses 3rd person, active voice, present tense, with strong verbs and a variety of sentence structures. Has clearly been proofread, as errors are sparse and language is, in turn, sophisticated and formal.