Abstract
Charles Mazouer : Voltaire's Roman tragedies. The five tragedies with Roman subjects are presented as five pages of classical history, through which Voltaire judges the historical period he has conjured up and takes a political stand on events of his own day. This article shows next how Voltaire, using the tradition of the tormented Cornelian hero, glorifies the virtue of these great characters who must win victories over themselves. But at the same time, it is clear that Voltaire's admiration for these great Romans is tempered by doubt as to heroism. His tragedies lead us to doubt the reasons for heroic actions, seen as examples of revolting barbarity, and the tragic hero arouses emotion rather than admiration. This demolition of the hero in fact saps tragic form from the inside.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
