The Tragedy of Tragedies: Or, The Life and Death of Tom Thumb the Great: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Tragedy of Tragedies: Or, The Life and Death of Tom Thumb the Great" is a satirical play that explores themes of ambition, love, and the absurdity of fate through its cast of unique characters. Central to the narrative is Tom Thumb, a diminutive hero with remarkable feats, including defeating numerous giants and winning the affection of Princess Huncamunca. The play also features King Arthur, who navigates a tumultuous court life overshadowed by his fear of his powerful wife, Queen Dollallolla, and his infatuation with the giantess Queen Glumdalca, who ultimately faces a tragic end. Other notable characters include Lord Grizzle, the antagonist driven by jealousy, and Merlin, the wise magician who foreshadows Tom Thumb's fate. The intertwining relationships and tragic outcomes evoke a sense of dark humor while addressing the unpredictable nature of life and love. The narrative critiques societal norms and the often futile pursuits of its characters, making it a reflective piece on human desires and the inevitability of tragedy.
The Tragedy of Tragedies: Or, The Life and Death of Tom Thumb the Great: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Henry Fielding
First published: 1731
Genre: Play
Locale: King Arthur's court
Plot: Farce
Time: Age of chivalry
Tom Thumb, a midget son of peasant parents in King Arthur's time. He accomplishes great deeds, even subduing ten thousand giants. He takes Princess Huncamunca as his bride, but his happiness is short-lived, for after subduing rebels led by Lord Grizzle, he is swallowed at a single gulp by a red cow.
Queen Dollallolla, the wife of King Arthur. She loves drinking, and she loves Tom Thumb. Although she does not fear the king—indeed, he is afraid of her—she does not tell him of her love for the little hero. She is slain by a courtier's mistress in a senseless series of murders.
Queen Glumdalca, a giantess and King Arthur's enemy. She is subdued by Tom Thumb and brought to Arthur's court, where the king falls in love with her. She wants Tom Thumb as her lover, but she settles for the king. She is killed by Lord Grizzle while defending Arthur against the rebels.
King Arthur, the king of England and Tom Thumb's liege lord. He loves Glumdalca and fears his wife. He kills himself after a senseless series of murders leaves him alone.
Princess Huncamunca, the daughter of King Arthur, loved by Tom Thumb. She marries Tom Thumb, whom she has loved for a long time. When she discovers that Lord Grizzle loves her, she wants to have two husbands. She kills her mother's murderer and then is herself slain.
Lord Grizzle, a malcontent. He promises to kill Tom Thumb for Queen Dollallolla. In his rebellion against King Arthur, he is slain by Tom Thumb.
Merlin, the magician at Arthur's court. He grants Tom Thumb a vision in which the little hero foresees that he will be eaten by a red cow.