Definition & Meaning of "hamartia"

What is "hamartia"?

Hamartia is a literary term that refers to a character's tragic flaw or error in judgment that leads to their downfall. This flaw is often a fundamental weakness or mistake that causes the character to make poor decisions or missteps, ultimately resulting in significant consequences. Hamartia is a key element in tragedy, as it helps to illustrate the character’s vulnerability and the impact of their actions on their fate.