Aristotle's concept of tragedy, as presented in his Poetics, focuses on a dramatic
form that aims to evoke pity and fear in the audience, resulting in catharsis—the
emotional release or purification. According to Aristotle, the core elements of a
tragedy are:
1. Plot: The most important element, with a well-structured narrative that
includes a clear beginning, middle, and end. The plot should feature
peripeteia (a reversal of fortune) and anagnorisis (recognition), which lead
to the downfall of the tragic hero.
2.
3. Character: The protagonist is typically a person of noble birth who has a
tragic flaw (hamartia) that leads to their downfall. This flaw is often a result
of a mistake or misjudgment, rather than pure evil, making the character
relatable and evoking sympathy from the audience
4.
5. Thought: The underlying themes and ideas of the tragedy, which are
revealed through the characters’ dialogues and actions. These ideas often
explore moral and philosophical issues.
6. Diction: The choice of words and language style, which must suit the tone
of the play and help convey its emotional and thematic content.
7. Melody: The music and chorus, which enhance the emotional experience of
the play, often reflecting the themes and moral lessons.
8. Spectacle: The visual elements, such as the setting and costumes, which
contribute to the dramatic impact but are less important than plot and
character.
Overall, Aristotle’s tragedy serves to stir deep emotions in the audience, leading
them to experience catharsis while reflecting on the consequences of human flaws
and errors.
Plato’s Critique of Poetry and Aristotle’s Defense
Plato criticizes poetry in The Republic through three main charges: Imitation (Mimesis),
Emotional Manipulation, and Moral Corruption.
1. Imitation (Mimesis)
Plato argues that poetry is merely an imitation of reality, making it twice removed from the
truth. He distinguishes between:
The World of Forms (perfect, unchanging ideas),
The Physical World (imperfect copies of Forms), and
Poetry and Art (mere imitations of the physical world).
Since poetry does not reveal truth but only appearances, it misleads people and lacks intellectual
value.
2. Emotional Manipulation
Plato believes poetry appeals to emotion rather than reason, leading to irrational behavior. He
worries that excessive exposure to poetry fosters emotional instability, weakening self-control
and logical thinking. He also criticizes how poetry portrays the gods, fearing it might normalize
immoral behavior.
3. Moral Corruption
Poetry often depicts immoral actions, which Plato argues can corrupt the audience, particularly
the youth. He believes that poetry glorifies violence, deceit, and flawed heroes, shaping
undesirable behaviors in society. To prevent this, he advocates censorship, allowing only poetry
that promotes virtue.
Aristotle’s Defense of Poetry
Aristotle counters Plato’s arguments in Poetics, redefining the role of poetry as a means of truth,
emotional balance, and moral education.
1. Imitation as a Path to Truth
Aristotle agrees that poetry is imitation but sees it as valuable. Unlike Plato, he argues that
poetry reveals universal truths about human nature, rather than just copying reality. Through
imitation, audiences gain deeper insights into life and morality.
2. Emotional Catharsis
Instead of manipulating emotions negatively, Aristotle sees poetry—especially tragedy—as
offering catharsis, a process that purges and refines emotions like pity and fear. This helps
individuals develop emotional intelligence rather than being overwhelmed by feelings.
3. Moral Reflection and Learning
Rather than corrupting morals, Aristotle believes poetry depicts the complexity of human
nature, allowing audiences to reflect on ethical dilemmas. Well-developed characters and their
struggles teach moral lessons by showing the consequences of choices.
Conclusion
Plato condemns poetry for being deceptive and harmful, while Aristotle defends it as a tool for
learning, emotional growth, and moral reflection. Rather than corrupting society, Aristotle
argues that poetry enriches human understanding, making it an essential part of intellectual
and moral life.
