In one of the National Theatre’s videos on ancient Greek Theatre:
One woman said, repeatedly, that the themes in Greek Tragedy are…?
Universal
Realistic
Filled with Pathos
Heightened reality

In ancient Greek theatre, the themes presented in tragedies truly resonate with audiences across time. The universal nature of these themes—like love, loss, fate, and moral dilemmas—speaks to the shared human experience, making the stories relevant even today. These narratives often delve into the depths of human emotion, evoking feelings of empathy and sorrow that allow viewers to connect deeply with the characters’ plights.

Moreover, Greek tragedies frequently portrayed heightened reality where extraordinary events transpire, making the depiction of ordinary human emotions more profound. The characters, often noble or heroic figures, grapple with their tragic flaws (hamartia), leading to dramatic, often catastrophic outcomes that reflect moral and philosophical questions. This exaggerated reality coupled with intense emotional depth captures the audiences’ attention and invites them to reflect on their own lives and choices.