Hamartia is a literary term derived from Greek tragedy, referring to a protagonist's tragic flaw or error in judgment that leads to their downfall. This concept often highlights the character's inherent imperfections, such as hubris or naivety, which ultimately result in their demise or suffering. It serves to evoke sympathy from the audience, as the character's missteps stem from their humanity rather than outright villainy. In essence, hamartia illustrates the complexity of human nature and the consequences of our choices.