A Companion to Tragedy is an essential resource for anyone interested in exploring the role of tragedy in Western history and culture. Broad in its scope and ambition. Features essays by renowned scholars from multiple disciplines, including classics, English, drama, anthropology and philosophy. Considers interpretations of tragedy through religion, philosophy and history. Tells the story of the historical development of tragedy from classical Greece to modernity. Pays particular attention to a fresh assessment of Ancient Greek tragedy. Demonstrates how the practice of reading tragedy has changed radically in the past two decades.