PHL 2025 Phil & Lit: Opera and Tragedy
Our fear and pity are aroused in ancient and modern drama in portrayals of the unequal struggle between flawed humans and gods who use decree destiny to negate our desires and actions. Opera seria uses music and voice to intensify the tragedies of attempting to resolve individual, family and political conflicts. Philosophy, emphasizing reason and control of passions, contests a tragic view of life. The course will examine tragic dramas, readings on tragic theory and philosophy and listen to opera videos like Othello, Don Giovanni, Carmen, and Passion.