A tragic hero is a character in literature who possesses noble qualities but is ultimately brought down by a personal flaw or fate. This flaw, known as a tragic flaw or hamartia, leads to their downfall, evoking pity and fear in the audience. Classic examples of tragic heroes include Oedipus from Sophocles' play and Macbeth from Shakespeare's tragedy. The concept of the tragic hero is rooted in ancient Greek drama, where it serves to explore themes of morality, fate, and human nature. The tragic hero's journey often highlights the struggle between their aspirations and the inevitable consequences of their actions, making their story both compelling and relatable.