The social hierarchies of the worlds presented in tragedies compose the basis for the tragic dilemma, specifically, when the main characters stray from the path predetermined by their society. A prime example of this presents itself in the play "Romeo and Juliet" by William Shakespeare. In the play, two noble houses of the city of Verona remain embroiled in a bitter feud. The children of each house, Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet, fall in love. In this manner, the societal norms and hierarchies of the tragedies present themselves.
The most widely renowned tragedies all have a character, or a duo, that is destined to be struck down. In the case of Romeo and Juliet, these characters are the play's namesakes. Shakespearean titles typically carry the names of the doomed, such as "Hamlet," "Anthony and Cleopatra," and "Macbeth." The singular title communicates the essence of the tragedy; a mishap, and ultimate death, will befall the tragedy's protagonist. The individual drives a tragedy, as readers and viewers are more engrossed in the work's sole hero; they feel more attached than they otherwise would if there were 20 characters, each with their own personal stories, to keep track of. The individual makes the tragedy more effective.
Strong belief and commitment to a cause are major elements of tragedy. While the ultimate outcome, as tragedy implies, will be death, the protagonist of each tragedy must pursue a path that will lead to such an outcome. The only rationale for a person to pursue such a fate arises from his commitment to the cause. In Romeo and Juliet, this is witnessed by the undying love the heroes have for one another. In this, the lovers find their untimely deaths.
The protagonist, in order to meet his fate, must meet with an overpowering opposition to the cause. In the case of Romeo and Juliet, this opposition comes from their respective families. Neither family desires to make peace with their enemy so that their children can wed. This facet of a tragedy and the one regarding social hierarchy usually go together, as the overbearing force that impedes the hero from reaching his goal comes from an institution far greater than any one antagonist can embody.