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What happens in a tragic dilemma?

In a tragic dilemma, the protagonist faces two or more equally terrible choices, each with its own set of negative consequences. The protagonist is forced to make a difficult decision, often under time pressure, and no matter which choice they make, they will suffer some form of loss or harm.

Tragic dilemmas are often used in literature, drama, and film to create suspense and tension, as well as to explore the moral and ethical implications of difficult decisions. They can lead to feelings of sympathy and empathy for the protagonist, as audiences grapple with the complexities of the choices they must make.

Here are some examples of tragic dilemmas:

* In Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, the two main characters are faced with the choice of either defying their families and being together, or sacrificing their love and marrying someone else.

* In The Princess Bride, Inigo Montoya is torn between his quest for revenge against the man who killed his father, and his newfound friendship with the main character, who is on the side of his enemy.

* In the movie The Dark Knight, Batman faces a choice between saving the life of either Rachel Dawes, the woman he loves, or Harvey Dent, the district attorney who is about to become a symbol of hope for the city.

Tragic dilemmas can be incredibly challenging for both the protagonist and the audience, but they can also lead to powerful and thought-provoking stories that explore the complexities of human decision-making.

Drama

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