How does Aristole define a tragic hero?

Aristotle defines a tragic hero as a character of high stature who experiences a downfall primarily due to a tragic flaw or misjudgment. This tragic flaw, often referred to as "hamartia," leads the hero to make choices that inadvertently bring about their own destruction, eliciting feelings of pity and fear from the audience. The element of fate is also significant, as the tragic hero typically encounters circumstances beyond their control that compound their misjudgments.

This definition highlights the complexity of the tragic hero, who is neither entirely virtuous nor completely wicked, but rather a relatable character with human flaws. This approach allows the audience to engage with the hero’s journey and reflect on the nature of fate and personal responsibility.

The other options don’t fully encompass the nuances of Aristotle's definition. While it is true that tragic heroes face significant challenges, the key aspect is their misjudgment or intrinsic weakness leading to tragic outcomes, rather than solely being responsible for their downfall or solely bringing joy and laughter. Thus, the first choice most accurately aligns with Aristotle’s concept of a tragic hero.