Comedy
* Typically ends with a happy ending, such as a marriage or reunion
* Often involves mistaken identities, disguises, and other forms of trickery
* Characters are often witty and clever, and use humor to resolve conflicts
* Themes include love, forgiveness, and reconciliation
Tragedy
* Typically ends with the death of the protagonist
* Often involves violence, betrayal, and other forms of suffering
* Characters are often flawed and make tragic mistakes
* Themes include ambition, fate, and the consequences of one's actions
In addition to these general differences, Shakespearean comedy and tragedy also differ in terms of their structure, language, and tone. Comedies are typically lighter in tone and use more humorous language, while tragedies are often more serious and use more elevated language. Furthermore, comedies tend to have a more complex plot structure, with multiple subplots and mistaken identities, while tragedies typically have a simpler plot structure with a focus on the protagonist's journey.
Ultimately, Shakespearean comedy and tragedy are two distinct genres that offer audiences different types of entertainment and insight into the human condition. Comedies provide a lighthearted escape from reality, while tragedies offer a deeper exploration of human suffering and the consequences of one's actions.