Tragicomic: meaning, definitions and examples
🎭
tragicomic
[trædʒɪˈkɒmɪk ]
Definition
literature, drama
The term 'tragicomic' refers to a genre or work that combines elements of tragedy and comedy. This blend often results in situations that provoke both laughter and sadness simultaneously. Tragicomic narratives may highlight the absurdities of life while also addressing serious themes. Such works challenge audiences to reflect on the complexities of human experience and the juxtaposition of joy and sorrow.
Synonyms
bittersweet, darkly humorous, ironical.
Examples of usage
- His tragicomic novel explores the ups and downs of life.
- The play was filled with tragicomic moments that left the audience in tears and laughter.
- She delivered a tragicomic performance that captivated the crowd.
- Tragicomic characters often find themselves in absurd predicaments.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- The term originated from combining 'tragedy' and 'comedy,' reflecting works that evoked both laughter and tears.
- Famous playwrights like Shakespeare utilized tragicomic elements, blending serious themes with humor in plays like 'The Merchant of Venice.'
- In modern literature, authors often explore tragicomic themes to capture the complexity of human experiences and emotions.
Film
- Movies such as 'Life is Beautiful' and 'Little Miss Sunshine' exemplify tragicomic narratives, balancing sorrow with humor.
- This genre can subvert expectations, leading audiences through a range of emotions rather than following a straightforward path.
- The tragicomic style allows filmmakers to address serious topics while still engaging viewers through elements of comedy.
Psychology
- Engaging with tragicomic content can help individuals cope with difficult situations, as humor serves as a defense mechanism.
- The juxtaposition of joy and sorrow invites reflection on life's dualities, fostering emotional resilience and understanding.
- Studies suggest that people who appreciate tragicomic elements may have higher emotional intelligence, as they can process complex feelings.
Theater
- Theater performances that blend tragedy and comedy often involve exaggerated characters, creating a space where audiences can laugh at deep themes.
- Playwrights like Anton Chekhov pioneered the tragicomic style, merging comedic dialogue with serious undertones to reflect real-life experiences.
- This form is powerful in encouraging audience empathy, as they witness characters navigating both extreme joy and deep sorrow.
Art
- Visual artists such as Marc Chagall incorporated tragicomic themes into their works, combining elements of fantasy and reality.
- Art that embraces the tragicomic can provoke thought, inviting viewers to reflect on the strangeness and profundity of life.
- Such artworks resonate with audiences by illustrating the fine line between laughter and sorrow, often leaving a lasting impact.
Translations
Translations of the word "tragicomic" in other languages:
🇵🇹 tragicómico
🇮🇳 त्रासदिक कॉमेडी
🇩🇪 tragikomisch
🇮🇩 tragikomedi
🇺🇦 трагicomічний
🇵🇱 tragikomedia
🇯🇵 トラジコメディ
🇫🇷 tragicomique
🇪🇸 tragicómico
🇹🇷 tragikomik
🇰🇷 비극 코미디
🇸🇦 تراجيدي كوميدي
🇨🇿 tragikomický
🇸🇰 tragikomický
🇨🇳 悲喜剧
🇸🇮 tragikomičen
🇮🇸 tragíkomískur
🇰🇿 трагикомикалық
🇬🇪 ტრაგიკომიკური
🇦🇿 tragediya-komediya
🇲🇽 tragicómico