Some Questions for Aristotle
(adapted from A. J. Drake's Teaching Resources)
The
Poetics (circa
340 B.C.E.) (part number in parentheses)
1.
In what three respects may the arts, all modes of imitation,
differ one from another? Give an example of one such difference. (1-3)
2.
From what two instincts "natural to human beings" does
poetry, according to Aristotle, seem to have sprung? (4)
3.
Aristotle observes that "there are some things that distress
us when we see them in reality, but the most accurate representations of
these same things we view with pleasure." How does Aristotle
explain this curious pleasure? (4)
4.
How does Aristotle first define tragedy? What are the two tragic
emotions by means of which catharsis is achieved, and what effect does
tragedy have upon those emotions? (6)
5.
What are the six parts every tragedy must have? Which, according
to Aristotle, is the most important, indeed the soul of tragedy, and
why? (6)
6.
What, according to Aristotle, is the proper relationship between
dramatic action and the representation of character? (9)
7.
What is the main difference between poetry and history? What does
Aristotle apparently mean by the term "universal"? (9)
8.
What are the two kinds of plot and how are they distinguished?
Which is better, and why? (10)
9.
What are "recognition" and "reversal"? Why
are they important to the structure of a drama and to achieving the
cathartic effect Aristotle says is the key to a successful tragedy? (11)
10.
Since the aim of tragedy is to generate pity and fear, how does
this aim influence the poet's selection of the tragic protagonist or
main character? (13)
11.
What are the four points Aristotle makes about characters? (15)
12.
What is Aristotle’s objection to the deus ex machina?
(15)
13.
What are some of the forms recognition can take? Which is the
best? (16)
14.
What does Aristotle say about the inclusion of improbable or
impossible events in a tragedy? When is it advisable for a critic to
look kindly on an "error" in representative poetry--something
inaccurate or impossible? (25)
15.
How does Aristotle argue that tragedy is superior to epic? (26)
Extra
Discussion Questions
1.
Aristotle's theory about drama has been called a "direct
response to Plato's theory of imitation." How does Aristotle's
conception of mimesis (imitation, representation) provide the
possibility of replying to some of Socrates' objections as they are
spelled out in The Republic?
2.
Aristotle clearly goes beyond simply refuting Plato -- he claims
that drama, in particular, plays an important role in Greek life; it is
not a corruptive influence. Would you offer something like that defense
of art today concerning film, television, or other forms of
entertainment? Why or why not?
3.
What image of the poet is implied by much of the Poetics?
How does this image contrast with the image of the poet to be found in
Plato's Ion? Which image do you prefer?
4.
Aristotle observes that "it is a less important matter if
the artist does not know that a hind does not have horns than if he is
unskillful in imitating one” (25). What do you think Aristotle means?
Do you agree? What might Socrates say?
5. Does the movie Jaws arouse pity and fear in the manner described by Aristotle? Is Jaws therefore a tragedy in the full Aristotelian sense?