Greek tragedies and their plots were derived from myths and heroic legends. Plays concerned a central character, the Greek hero, whose death became a symbol of human sacrifice. The tragedy intended to evoke pity and fear and to produce an experience which cleansed these emotions. To the ancient Greeks suffering brought knowledge of worldly matters and to the individual, wisdom and insight into the nature of his being. Greek dignity and value were ultimately affirmed by the fact that man’s behavior attracted the attention of the gods who strengthened man with power.