Tragic Hero: A main character cursed by fate and possessed of a tragic flaw.
A Struggle Between Good and Evil: This struggle can take place as part of the plot or exist within the main character.
Hamartia: The fatal character flaw of the tragic hero.
Tragic Waste: The good being destroyed along with the bad at the resolution of the play. Often played out with the unnecessary loss of life, especially of "good guy" characters.
External Conflict: This can be a problem facing the hero as a result of the plot or a "bad guy" character.
Internal Conflict: The struggle the hero engages in with his/her fatal flaw.
Catharsis: The release of the audience's emotions through empathy with the characters.
Supernatural Elements: Magic, witchcraft, ghosts, etc.
Lack of Poetic Justice: Things end poorly for everyone, including the "good guys."
Comic Relief: One or more humorous characters who participate in scenes intended to lighten the mood.