What is one characteristic of Roman tragedy?

One characteristic of Roman tragedy is that it often focused on weighty themes and serious subject matter, typically drawing from historical or mythological sources to convey moral lessons or explore human suffering and fate. Roman tragedies were heavily influenced by Greek precedent but tended to incorporate a more elaborate and stylized presentation of tragic elements.

The assertion that Roman tragedy generally lacked in entertainment value is reflective of its thematic depth, which often involved complex emotions stemming from loss, betrayal, and moral dilemmas. While there were certainly elements meant to engage and entertain an audience, the primary goal was not solely entertainment but rather to provoke thought, evoke deep emotional responses, and highlight the human condition.

In this context, the emphasis on serious themes and moral inquiry set Roman tragedy apart from other forms of theatrical expression, such as comedy or lighter entertainments. Thus, while it may have engaged audiences, it was not primarily crafted for entertainment in the same manner that other theatre genres might have been at the time.