Harvey Dent / Two-Face
Tragic Hero
6 Ways a Tragic Hero is Defined
The tragic hero is a character of noble stature and has greatness. The character must ALSO embody nobility and virtue as part of his/her character.
We should see in him or her, someone who is essentially like us (flawed), although perhaps elevated to a higher position in society.
The hero’s downfall, is partially his/her own fault.
Punishment is often more than the crime.
The hero’s fall is not pure loss
Though it is sad, the tragedy does not leave its audience in a state of depression.
Why is he a Tragic Hero?
He starts out the film as an honorable hero of Gotham nicknamed Gotham's 'White Knight'. He is uncompromising and risks his life for the criminals of Gotham to be put away. However, his fatal is his illogical love for Rachel, which is shown when he would rather he die than Rachel, despite all the innocent people who are relying on him and all the criminals who would get put back onto the streets. He goes insane after a mob boss threw acid at him during a trial, hideously scarring the left side of his face. He adopted the "Two-Face" persona and became a criminal, choosing to bring about good or evil based upon the outcome of a coin flip. One thing that came from his fall was the safety of this citizens of Gotham. Though death is sad, his was not, which leaves many people safe, and many movie watchers happy.. His death was definitely his fault, as his criminal activity led batman to kill him while trying to kill commissioner Gordon's son and wife.
Harvey Dent's Quote
Two-Face Talking to Batman
You either die a hero or you live long enough to see yourself become the villain.