What is generally defined as "Tragedy" in Greek drama?

In Greek drama, tragedy is characterized by its focus on serious themes and the exploration of human suffering, often presented through the experiences of a noble protagonist. This noble character typically faces great challenges or defeats, and their downfall is often brought about by a combination of personal flaws (hamartia) and fate. This struggle reflects profound truths about the human condition and moral dilemmas, making tragedy a powerful vehicle for emotional engagement and philosophical inquiry.

The essence of tragedy lies in its ability to evoke catharsis in the audience, allowing them to experience intense emotions such as pity and fear as they witness the tragic hero’s journey. In the case of "Oedipus Rex," for example, Oedipus is a noble king whose quest for truth leads to devastating revelations about his own identity and actions, culminating in tragedy as he grapples with the consequences of fate and his own hubris.

In contrast, other types of drama mentioned, such as comedy, satire, or documentary plays, do not align with this traditional definition. Comedic dramas often have lighter themes with happy endings, while satire aims to critique societal norms and issues rather than delve into the depth of human suffering and moral complexity typically found in tragedies. Documentary plays generally focus on factual historical