Mel Gibson
A Tragic Hero
Qualities of a "Tragic Hero"
A tragic hero is a character of noble stature and has greatness.
- must embody nobility and virtue
- flawed, not perfect but in a higher position of society
- has a downfall that is caused by judgment ("tragic flaw")
- the hero's misfortune is not deserved
- there is some gained self-knowledge
- the tragedy does not leave its audience in a state of depression
Why Mel Gibson is considered a "tragic hero"
Mel Gibson is a popular actor, director, and producer and has starred in many television shows and movies. He has won over 25 awards including an Oscar for Best Director of the Year and was nominated for Best Actor and Best Director. He is known for his short temper, pride, discrimination and domestic abuse. He also has an alcohol addiction which has caused a 3-year probation sentence. After many explosions of his temper and rage, he is ignored by most of his Hollywood colleagues and was dropped bu the William Morris Endeavor Agency. Also, there is a restraining order against him from ex wife and his daughter. He continuously cusses at interviews on shows and there are recordings of verbal and implied physical abuse against his ex wife Now, he has taken some anger management counseling and doesn't appear in many films anymore while shading himself from paparazzi.
Quote
“I had really good highs but some very low lows. I found out recently I'm manic depressive." -Mel Gibson