Table of Contents: Preface
Introduction
Part I: Theory: Towards a definition of tragedy
Chapter I. A categorical review
Chapter II. Voltaire's concept of tragedy
A. Prefaces, commentaries and correspondences
B. Voltaire and Aristotle
C. The critics' interpretation
Part II: Practice: The cycle from Œdipe to Mérope
Chapter I. Œdipe
Chapter II. Zaïre
Chapter III. Alzire
Chapter IV. Mahomet
Chapter V. Mérope
Part III: Conclusion: The inner significance of the tragedies
Chapter I. Tragedy, history and drama
Chapter II. The inner significance of the tragedies
List of works consulted
Index