Poetics is a treatise written by Aristotle in ancient Greece, in which he discusses the art of poetry and the theory of tragedy. The work is divided into several sections, each with a different focus.
Definition and Purpose of Poetry
Aristotle begins by defining poetry as "an imitation of an action that is serious, complete, and of a certain magnitude." He goes on to explain that poetry is distinguished from other forms of imitation, such as history, by its use of meter and language to create an emotional response in the audience.
Tragedy
Aristotle devotes much of the Poetics to the discussion of tragedy, which he defines as "an imitation of an action that is serious and also, as having magnitude, complete in itself." He explains that tragedy is an imitation of serious actions and characters, and that it is designed to elicit a specific emotional response in the audience, namely, the experience of fear and pity.
The Elements of Tragedy
Aristotle goes on to discuss the various elements that make up a tragedy, including plot, character, thought, diction, song, and spectacle. He explains how each of these elements contributes to the overall effect of the tragedy and how they should be used in order to achieve the desired emotional response in the audience.
The Plot
Aristotle states that the plot is the most important element of tragedy, and that it should be "a whole made up of incidents arousing fear and pity." He explains that the plot should be well-constructed, with a beginning, middle, and end, and that it should be both probable and necessary.
Characters
Aristotle explains that characters in a tragedy should be "good" and "true to life." He also states that the actions of the characters should be motivated by their own moral character, rather than by external forces.
Thought
Aristotle explains that thought is the expression of the characters' moral character through their words and actions. He states that thought should be "appropriate" to the character and to the situation.
Diction
Aristotle explains that diction is the choice of words used in a tragedy. He states that diction should be "appropriate" to the character and to the situation, and that it should be "clear" and "elevated."
Song
Aristotle explains that song is an important element of tragedy, and that it should be "appropriate" to the character and to the situation. He also states that song should be "pleasing" to the ear.
Spectacle
Aristotle explains that spectacle is the visual element of tragedy, and that it should be "appropriate" to the character and to the situation. He also states that spectacle should be "pleasing" to the eye.
The Role of the Audience
Finally, Aristotle explains the role of the audience in the experience of tragedy. He states that the audience should be moved by the fear and pity evoked by the tragedy, and that they should leave the theater feeling "purged" of these emotions.
Poetics is a treatise on the art of poetry and the theory of tragedy, in which Aristotle explains the elements that make up a tragedy and how they should be used to create a specific emotional response in the audience. He also explains the role of the audience in the experience of tragedy and how the audience should be moved by the fear and pity evoked by the tragedy.
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