Tragedy and Transcendence: Tracing Tragedy from Early Modernity to Present

Author

William J. Giancola '12, College of the Holy CrossFollow

Date of Creation

5-20-2012

Document Type

Thesis

Department

English

First Advisor

James M. Kee

Abstract

This thesis will examine six “tragedies” spanning the Renaissance and Modern epochs and attempt to trace the narrative of tragic consciousness as this consciousness expands to include new forms, symbols, and modes of expression. Additionally, this thesis will attempt to parse the kind of relationship tragedy has with transcendence and seek to understand – and ultimately judge – whether each of the texts examined herein is properly “tragic” as opposed to ironic, pessimistic, nihilistic, merely cynical, or merely existential.

Recommended Citation

Giancola, William J. '12, "Tragedy and Transcendence: Tracing Tragedy from Early Modernity to Present" (2012). College Honors Program. 1.
https://crossworks.holycross.edu/honors/1