Thematically similar to the other “street films” of the era, with an emphasis on the dissatisfied middle class male who ventures into the city at night searching for excitement but finding heartbreak, Tragedy sets itself apart through the devastating portrayal of an aging prostitute by silent star Asta Nielsen. Along with another, younger prostitute and their pimp, they represent the lost souls whose lives have been devoured by the city streets. Rahn emphasizes the street itself, detailing both its danger and its allure with extended shots of feet and legs hurrying along the pavement, emphasizing the dark corners where deals are made and the hauntingly beautiful shadows thrown by streetlights.