Which of the following represents a clear definition of poetic justice?
a
Playwrights are allowed to use whatever kind of verse they prefer
b
The final scene of a tragedy
c
Good is rewarded; evil is punished
d
Playwrights may change historical events to fit the needs of the drama
c
Good is rewarded; evil is punished
The correct answer is c: Good is rewarded; evil is punished.
Poetic justice is a literary concept where virtue is rewarded and vice is punished in a manner that is fitting and appropriate. It involves bringing about a sense of moral balance or fairness in the events and outcomes of a story or play. This concept is often seen in literature, where characters’ actions have consequences that align with their moral choices, creating a sense of satisfaction and resolution for the audience. Therefore, the definition of poetic justice is that good is rewarded, and evil is punished.
The correct answer that represents a clear definition of poetic justice is option c: "Good is rewarded; evil is punished."
To arrive at this answer, we need to understand the concept of poetic justice. Poetic justice is a literary device where the characters' actions in a story or play lead to just consequences that are often morally fitting. It is a way of creating balance and fairness in storytelling.
Option a, which states that playwrights are allowed to use whatever kind of verse they prefer, is not related to the definition of poetic justice.
Option b mentions the final scene of a tragedy. While the concept of poetic justice is often present in tragedies, it does not solely refer to the final scene of a tragedy.
Option d talks about playwrights changing historical events to suit the needs of a drama, which is unrelated to the definition of poetic justice.
Therefore, option c, "Good is rewarded; evil is punished," best represents a clear definition of poetic justice. In a narrative that follows this principle, virtuous or morally upright characters are usually rewarded for their actions, while evil or morally corrupt characters are generally punished.