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“Plot of Tragedy” by Aristotle: Extracts from Poetics

“Plot of Tragedy” by Aristotle is a collection of extracts from VII to XIV from his book, Poetics.

Introduction: “Plot of Tragedy” by Aristotle

“Plot of Tragedy” by Aristotle is a collection of extracts from VII to XIV from his book, Poetics. They establish foundational principles for dramatic storytelling, defining tragedy as the imitation of a complete, unified action with a clear beginning, middle, and end. This action, driven by probability or necessity, follows a character’s journey from good fortune to bad, caused not by vice, but by an error or frailty. Aristotle emphasizes that a well-constructed plot should be organically whole, with each part contributing to the overall effect. He distinguishes poetry from history, highlighting that poetry explores what could happen and aims for universal truths, while history focuses on specific events. The most effective tragedies are complex, incorporating elements of reversal and recognition, and culminating in a scene of suffering to elicit pity and fear in the audience. These timeless principles continue to resonate with storytellers and audiences alike, shaping our understanding of compelling narratives.

Summary of “Plot of Tragedy” by Aristotle

· Proper Structure of the Plot:

The plot is fundamental in tragedy and should be complete and whole, with a specific magnitude.
Quote: “The proper structure of the Plot, since this is the first and most important thing in Tragedy.”

· Characteristics of a Complete Action:

A complete action possesses a beginning, middle, and end, each with specific roles within the narrative.
Quote: “A whole is that which has a beginning, a middle, and an end.”

· Unity and Magnitude:

The plot should have a certain size that can be easily embraced in one view, contributing to its beauty.
Quote: “A beautiful object, whether it be a living organism or any whole composed of parts, must not only have an orderly arrangement of parts, but must also be of a certain magnitude.”

· Unity of Plot vs. Unity of Character:

The unity of plot is not dependent on the unity of the hero; a single life can contain many unrelated incidents.
Quote: “Unity of plot does not, as some persons think, consist in the Unity of the hero.”

· Role of the Poet:

The poet’s job is to craft plots, not merely write verses, focusing on what may happen based on probability or necessity.
Quote: “It is not the function of the poet to relate what has happened, but what may happen.”

· Complexity and Simplicity in Plots:

Plots can be simple or complex, with complex plots containing elements like Reversal of Situation and Recognition.
Quote: “Plots are either Simple or Complex, for the actions in real life, of which the plots are an imitation, obviously show a similar distinction.”

· Ideal Tragic Plot:

The best tragedies involve a protagonist of noble stature meeting misfortune due to a mistake, evoking pity and fear.
Quote: “The change of fortune should be not from bad to good, but, reversely, from good to bad.”

Literary Terms in “Plot of Tragedy” by Aristotle

Term	Definition by Aristotle	Explanation and Reference
Plot	The arrangement of the incidents/actions in the play.	Aristotle considers plot as the most important element of tragedy, emphasizing that it must have a beginning, middle, and end (VII).
Unity of Plot	The plot must follow a coherent and logical sequence where every part is necessary for the whole.	Aristotle argues against the unity of character dictating the plot, focusing instead on the cohesiveness of the plot’s action (VII, VIII).
Magnitude	The plot must be of a certain size that can be comprehensibly embraced in one view.	A balance is necessary; too large, and the audience can’t grasp it, too small, and it lacks impact (VII).
Reversal (Peripeteia)	A change in the direction of the plot, leading to the opposite of what was planned or foreseen by the characters.	Aristotle cites examples like Oedipus and Lynceus where sudden reversals intensify the dramatic effect (XI).
Recognition (Anagnorisis)	A shift from ignorance to knowledge, creating a turning point in the fortunes of the protagonist.	Typically coincides with or enhances the reversal, deepening the plot’s emotional impact by linking character realization with plot twists (XI).
Complex Plot	A plot that includes incidents of reversal and recognition, adding depth and intricacy.	Such plots engage the audience more deeply than simple plots by intertwining personal and circumstantial developments (X).
Scene of Suffering	A scene involving destructive or painful action, crucial in eliciting pity or fear from the audience.	Integral for creating the emotional effect that Aristotle sees as central to the impact of tragedy (XI).
Catharsis	The purgation of emotions of pity and fear which results in the renewal and restoration of the audience.	While not explicitly mentioned in this specific text, it is a fundamental concept in Aristotle’s theory, relating to the overall emotional effect of tragedy.
Simple Plot	A plot without any peripeteia or anagnorisis, straightforward and less complex than the ideal tragic plot.	Mentioned as less effective in engaging the audience compared to complex plots, as it lacks the dramatic fluctuations that enrich the narrative (X).

Literary Theory and “Plot of Tragedy” by Aristotle

Formalism: Formalists focus on a text’s internal structure and elements. Aristotle’s emphasis on plot as the “soul of tragedy” aligns with this theory, as it stresses the importance of a well-structured beginning, middle, and end, along with elements like reversal and recognition.
Structuralism: Structuralists analyze underlying patterns and systems in literature. Aristotle’s concept of a unified plot with interconnected parts that contribute to the whole resonates with structuralist ideas. Additionally, his notion of “probability or necessity” guiding the plot aligns with the structuralist search for underlying patterns.
Reader-Response Criticism: This theory emphasizes the reader’s role in interpreting a text. Aristotle’s focus on the emotional impact of tragedy, specifically pity and fear, anticipates reader-response criticism by acknowledging the importance of the audience’s reaction to the plot.
New Criticism: New Critics closely examine a text’s language and structure to derive its meaning. Aristotle’s detailed analysis of plot elements like reversal, recognition, and the scene of suffering offers a framework for New Critics to analyze a tragedy’s internal workings.
Psychoanalytic Criticism: This theory explores the psychological motivations of characters and authors. Aristotle’s concept of a tragic hero whose downfall is caused by a “tragic flaw” or error in judgment can be seen as a precursor to psychoanalytic interpretations of character and motivation.

Examples: “Plot of Tragedy” by Aristotle

Tragedy	How It Adheres to Aristotle’s “Plot of Tragedy”
Oedipus Rex	* Complete Action: The play follows Oedipus’s journey from revered king to exiled outcast, fulfilling the requirement of a whole action with a beginning, middle, and end.
	* Magnitude: The scope of the tragedy encompasses Oedipus’s fall from grace and the revelation of his tragic past, creating a sense of magnitude and importance.
	* Probability or Necessity: The plot unfolds through a series of interconnected events driven by both fate and Oedipus’s own actions, aligning with Aristotle’s concept of causality.
	* Reversal of Situation: The revelation of Oedipus’s true identity as the killer of his father and husband of his mother marks a dramatic reversal of his fortune and status.
	* Recognition: Oedipus’s recognition of his tragic actions and their consequences leads to the play’s devastating climax and evokes both pity and fear in the audience.
Hamlet	* Complete Action: The play follows Hamlet’s struggle to avenge his father’s murder, culminating in a final act of revenge and the restoration of order to the kingdom.
	* Magnitude: The play’s scope encompasses themes of revenge, morality, and the human condition, elevating the story beyond a personal vendetta.
	* Probability or Necessity: Hamlet’s actions and the events that unfold are a direct consequence of his father’s murder, creating a sense of interconnectedness and causality.
	* Reversal of Situation: Hamlet’s initial hesitation and internal conflict lead to a series of events that culminate in his own tragic demise, marking a reversal of his potential for good.
	* Recognition: Hamlet’s realization of his own mortality and the consequences of his inaction evokes both pity and fear in the audience as they witness his tragic downfall.
Macbeth	* Complete Action: The play chronicles Macbeth’s rise to power through murder and his subsequent descent into madness and destruction.
	* Magnitude: The play’s themes of ambition, power, and guilt elevate the story beyond a simple tale of murder.
	* Probability or Necessity: The plot unfolds as a consequence of Macbeth’s ambition and the witches’ prophecies, creating a chain of events that feels both inevitable and tragic.
	* Reversal of Situation: Macbeth’s initial victory and ascension to the throne are ultimately reversed as he succumbs to guilt and paranoia, leading to his downfall.
	* Recognition: Macbeth’s belated recognition of the consequences of his actions and the futility of his ambition evokes both pity and fear in the audience.
Othello	* Complete Action: The play narrates Othello’s journey from a respected general to a jealous murderer, driven by Iago’s manipulation.
	* Magnitude: The play’s exploration of jealousy, trust, and betrayal resonates with audiences on a deep emotional level.
	* Probability or Necessity: Iago’s machinations and Othello’s susceptibility to jealousy drive the plot forward, creating a sense of tragic inevitability.
	* Reversal of Situation: Othello’s initial love and trust for Desdemona are tragically inverted as he becomes consumed by jealousy and suspicion.
	* Recognition: Othello’s realization of his fatal error in trusting Iago comes too late, leading to his own death and Desdemona’s, evoking both pity and fear in the audience.
King Lear	* Complete Action: The play charts King Lear’s descent into madness after dividing his kingdom among his daughters, and the tragic consequences that follow.
	* Magnitude: The play’s themes of family, loyalty, and the abuse of power resonate with audiences across generations.
	* Probability or Necessity: Lear’s flawed judgment and the cruelty of his daughters Goneril and Regan set in motion a chain of events that lead to suffering and destruction.
	* Reversal of Situation: Lear’s initial position of power and authority is reversed as he is cast out and humiliated by his own children.
	* Recognition: Lear’s gradual recognition of his own mistakes and the true nature of his daughters elicits pity and fear in the audience as they witness his tragic downfall.

Criticism Against “Plot of Tragedy” by Aristotle

Limited Scope: Aristotle’s focus on Greek tragedy, particularly Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex, as the model for all tragedies limits the applicability of his principles to other cultures and time periods.
Rigid Formula: His emphasis on a specific plot structure with elements like reversal and recognition can be seen as overly prescriptive and restrictive, discouraging experimentation and innovation.
Narrow Definition of Character: Aristotle’s emphasis on plot over character development can lead to flat or underdeveloped characters who serve the plot rather than being complex individuals.
Neglect of Other Elements: While focusing on plot, Aristotle neglects other crucial elements of drama like language, staging, and visual effects, which can significantly contribute to a tragedy’s impact.
Moralistic Bias: His preference for a tragic hero who falls due to a “tragic flaw” rather than a villainous character might be considered overly moralistic and simplistic in its view of human nature and morality.

Extracts with Explanation from “Plot of Tragedy” by Aristotle

Extract	Explanation
“A whole is that which has a beginning, a middle, and an end.”	This emphasizes the importance of a unified and complete plot structure. A good story must have a clear starting point, a series of events that build tension, and a satisfying conclusion.
“A well-constructed plot, therefore, must neither begin nor end at haphazard…”	This underscores the necessity of intentionality in plot construction. The beginning and end of a story should not be arbitrary; they should arise organically from the narrative’s internal logic.
“Poetry, therefore, is a more philosophical and a higher thing than history…”	Aristotle elevates poetry above history by asserting that poetry deals with universal truths and human nature, while history focuses on specific events. Poetry, he argues, has greater potential for exploring fundamental human experiences and emotions.
“The best form of recognition is coincident with a Reversal of the Situation, as in the Oedipus.”	This identifies a crucial element of effective storytelling: the combination of recognition (a character’s realization of their true identity or situation) with a reversal of fortune. This combination creates a powerful emotional impact on the audience and is exemplified in Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex.
“Of all plots and actions the episodic are the worst.”	Aristotle criticizes episodic plots, where events follow each other without a clear causal connection. He emphasizes the importance of a tightly woven plot where each event is logically linked to the next, enhancing the narrative’s coherence and impact.

“Definition of Tragedy” by Aristotle: An Extract from Poetics

“Definition of Tragedy” by Aristotle is an extract from his seminal work Poetics published circa 335 BC.

Introduction: “Definition of Tragedy” by Aristotle

“Definition of Tragedy” by Aristotle is an extract from his seminal work Poetics published circa 335 BC. Aristotle defines tragedy as “the imitation of an action that is serious, complete, and of a certain magnitude; in language embellished with each kind of artistic ornament, the several kinds being found in separate parts of the play; in the form of action, not of narrative; through pity and fear effecting the proper purgation of these emotions.” This definition, translated by S. H. Butcher in 1895, has maintained its relevance over time due to its comprehensive nature. Aristotle’s focus on the emotional impact of tragedy, specifically the arousal of pity and fear leading to catharsis, resonates even today. Moreover, his emphasis on the structural elements of plot, character, and language provides a framework for analyzing and understanding dramatic works across cultures and eras. While interpretations and applications may have evolved, the core principles articulated by Aristotle continue to serve as a cornerstone in the study and appreciation of tragic literature

Summary of “Definition of Tragedy” by Aristotle

· Formal Definition of Tragedy

“Tragedy, then, is an imitation of an action that is serious, complete, and of a certain magnitude.”
It uses “language embellished with each kind of artistic ornament” and is presented “in the form of action, not of narrative.”
The aim is to evoke “pity and fear effecting the proper purgation of these emotions.”

· Elements of Tragedy

Language Embellishment: Includes “rhythm, ‘harmony,’ and song.”
Medium of Imitation: Involves “Diction” (metrical arrangement of words) and “Song.”

· Importance of Plot

“The Plot is the imitation of the action” and is considered the soul of a tragedy.
Actions are central, as “life consists in action” and character is secondary, defined by actions rather than merely representing character.

· Six Parts of Tragedy

Plot: The most important element, as “the end is the chief thing of all.”
Character: Reveals “moral purpose” and follows the plot in importance.
Thought: “The faculty of saying what is possible and pertinent in given circumstances.”
Diction: “The expression of the meaning in words.”
Song: Chief among the embellishments.
Spectacle: Has emotional attraction but is the least artistic and “connected least with the art of poetry.”

· Comparison with Other Arts

Tragedy is compared to painting, where “the most beautiful colours, laid on confusedly, will not give as much pleasure as the chalk outline of a portrait.”
The plot’s construction is likened to the soul’s role in the body.

· Role of Spectacle

While it has “emotional attraction,” it is less important artistically and relies more on stage mechanics than poetic art.

· Emotional Elements

Key elements like “Peripeteia or Reversal of the Situation, and Recognition scenes” are vital parts of the plot that evoke emotional interest.

Literary Terms in “Definition of Tragedy” by Aristotle

Literary Term	Aristotle’s Definition	Explanation
Imitation (Mimesis)	The act of creating a representation of reality.	Tragedy is an imitation of a serious action, meaning it portrays human experiences and emotions in a heightened and dramatic way.
Action (Praxis)	A sequence of events with a beginning, middle, and end.	The plot of a tragedy revolves around a significant action or series of actions that drive the narrative and lead to a resolution.
Serious	Dealing with weighty and meaningful themes.	Tragedy explores profound human experiences, moral dilemmas, and the consequences of choices, often leading to suffering or downfall.
Complete	Having a clear beginning, middle, and end.	A tragedy follows a unified plot structure with a clear arc of events, leading to a logical conclusion.
Magnitude	Possessing a certain importance and grandeur.	The actions and consequences in a tragedy are significant and impactful, often involving characters of high social standing or dealing with universal themes.
Plot (Mythos)	The arrangement of incidents in a narrative.	The plot is the backbone of a tragedy, determining the sequence of events, the conflicts that arise, and the ultimate resolution.
Character (Ethos)	The moral and ethical qualities of a person.	The characters in a tragedy are defined by their personalities, motivations, and choices, which shape the events of the play.
Thought (Dianoia)	The ideas and reasoning behind a character’s actions.	Thought refers to the intellectual and philosophical aspects of a tragedy, including the characters’ motivations and the underlying themes explored in the play.
Diction (Lexis)	The choice and arrangement of words in language.	Diction encompasses the poetic language, dialogue, and imagery used in a tragedy to convey meaning and evoke emotions.
Song (Melos)	The musical element of a play, including choral odes and lyrical passages.	Song adds an emotional and rhythmic dimension to tragedy, often commenting on the action or expressing the characters’ inner feelings.
Spectacle (Opsis)	The visual aspects of a play, including costumes, scenery, and stage effects.	Spectacle enhances the visual appeal of a tragedy, creating atmosphere and contributing to the overall impact of the performance.

Literary Theory and “Definition of Tragedy” by Aristotle

Formalism: Aristotle’s “Poetics” aligns with Formalism due to its emphasis on the structural elements of tragedy. He meticulously dissects plot, character, diction, thought, song, and spectacle, highlighting their individual contributions and interconnectedness within the whole. His analysis prioritizes the internal workings of the text itself, examining how these elements create the desired emotional and intellectual impact on the audience. This focus on form and structure resonates with Formalist principles, which prioritize the analysis of literary techniques and devices over external factors like authorial intent or historical context.
Reader-Response Criticism: While Aristotle’s primary focus is on the objective qualities of tragedy, his definition also inadvertently invites reader-response interpretations. His emphasis on the evocation of pity and fear, leading to catharsis, acknowledges the emotional experience of the audience. This emotional response is subjective and varies from individual to individual, aligning with reader-response criticism’s emphasis on the reader’s personal interpretation and engagement with the text. Thus, while Aristotle’s definition provides a framework for understanding tragedy, it also leaves room for individual readers to connect with the work on a personal level, contributing to the ongoing relevance and multifaceted interpretations of his theories.

Examples of Critiques: “Definition of Tragedy” by Aristotle

Literary Work	Plot	Character	Thought	Spectacle
“Oedipus Rex”	– Exemplifies Aristotle’s ideal plot structure with tight, logical progression.	– Oedipus’s tragic flaw (hubris) leads to his downfall.	– Explores fate versus free will and the nature of truth.	– Uses minimal spectacle, focusing more on dialogue and plot.
	– Reference: “The plot is the first principle, and, as it were, the soul of a tragedy.”	– Reference: “Character holds the second place.”	– Reference: “Thought is the faculty of saying what is possible and pertinent in given circumstances.”	– Reference: “The Spectacle has, indeed, an emotional attraction of its own, but, of all the parts, it is the least artistic.”
“Hamlet”	– Features a complex plot with elements of revenge and internal conflict.	– Hamlet’s indecision and contemplative nature are crucial to his characterization.	– Philosophical musings on life, death, and morality.	– The ghost of King Hamlet adds a supernatural element, enhancing the spectacle.
	– Reference: “The incidents and the plot are the end of a tragedy; and the end is the chief thing of all.”	– Reference: “Character comes in as subsidiary to the actions.”	– Reference: “Thought is found where something is proved to be, or not to be, or a general maxim is enunciated.”	– Reference: “The production of spectacular effects depends more on the art of the stage machinist than on that of the poet.”
“Macbeth”	– Follows a clear rise and fall structure, driven by ambition and power.	– Macbeth’s moral decline is a pivotal aspect of the tragedy.	– Themes of ambition, fate, and guilt are central to the play’s thought.	– The witches and the dramatic final battle provide strong visual elements.
	– Reference: “For Tragedy is an imitation, not of men, but of an action and of life.”	– Reference: “It is by their actions that they are happy or the reverse.”	– Reference: “Every Tragedy, therefore, must have six parts, which parts determine its quality—namely, Plot, Character, Diction, Thought, Spectacle, Song.”	– Reference: “The Spectacle has, indeed, an emotional attraction of its own.”
“Death of a Salesman”	– Structure mirrors the disintegration of Willy Loman’s mind and life.	– Willy Loman is a tragic figure whose flaws and illusions lead to his downfall.	– Critiques the American Dream and explores themes of identity and reality.	– Relies more on emotional depth and character interactions than on visual spectacle.
	– Reference: “The Plot, then, is the first principle, and, as it were, the soul of a tragedy.”	– Reference: “Character reveals moral purpose, showing what kind of things a man chooses or avoids.”	– Reference: “Thought, on the other hand, is found where something is proved to be, or not to be, or a general maxim is enunciated.”	– Reference: “The power of Tragedy, we may be sure, is felt even apart from representation and actors.”

Criticism Against “Definition of Tragedy” by Aristotle

The Narrowness of Aristotle’s Definition: Some critics argue that Aristotle’s definition is too restrictive, primarily focusing on Greek tragedies and not accounting for the diverse forms that tragedy can take across cultures and time periods.
The Question of Catharsis: The concept of catharsis, a purging of emotions through pity and fear, has been debated and reinterpreted. Some theorists question its validity and propose alternative understandings of the emotional impact of tragedy.
The Emphasis on Plot Over Character: Aristotle prioritizes plot as the “soul” of tragedy, which some critics argue neglects the importance of character development and psychological complexity in tragic works.
The Exclusion of Other Genres: Aristotle’s focus on tragedy excludes other dramatic genres like comedy and melodrama, limiting the scope of his theory and its applicability to a wider range of dramatic literature.

Specific Theorists and Their Works:

Bertolt Brecht (“Brecht on Theatre”): Brecht, a prominent playwright and theorist, challenged Aristotle’s emphasis on emotional catharsis. He advocated for a more critical and intellectually engaging form of theatre that would prompt social action rather than emotional release.
August Wilhelm Schlegel (“Lectures on Dramatic Art and Literature”): Schlegel, a German Romantic critic, questioned Aristotle’s rigid adherence to the three unities (time, place, and action) and advocated for a more flexible approach to dramatic structure.

Extracts with Explanation from “Definition of Tragedy” by Aristotle

Extract	Explanation	Context	Theoretical Perspective
“Tragedy, then, is an imitation of an action that is serious, complete, and of a certain magnitude; in language embellished with each kind of artistic ornament.”	Aristotle defines tragedy as a serious and complete action of significant magnitude, using language enhanced by various artistic forms.	This forms the basis of Aristotle’s definition of tragedy in his work “Poetics.”	Highlights the importance of seriousness, completeness, and artistic language in tragedy, emphasizing the role of the plot and artistic elements.
“The Plot is the imitation of the action: for by plot I here mean the arrangement of the incidents.”	The plot is central to tragedy, representing the structured arrangement of events that form the narrative.	Aristotle discusses the six elements of tragedy, with plot being the most crucial.	Emphasizes the importance of a well-structured plot as the core of a tragedy, which drives the action and evokes emotional responses.
“By ‘language embellished,’ I mean language into which rhythm, ‘harmony,’ and song enter.”	Embellished language includes rhythm, harmony, and song, which enhance the artistic quality of the tragedy.	Aristotle elaborates on the elements that contribute to the language of a tragedy.	Focuses on the stylistic and aesthetic aspects of tragedy, highlighting how artistic language contributes to the overall impact of the play.
“Character holds the second place. A similar fact is seen in painting. The most beautiful colours, laid on confusedly, will not give as much pleasure as the chalk outline of a portrait.”	Character is secondary to the plot, and its purpose is to support the actions. Characters should be well-defined but are not as crucial as the plot.	Aristotle compares the role of character in tragedy to colors in painting, emphasizing clarity and structure.	Illustrates the supportive role of character in enhancing the plot, likening it to the outline in painting, which provides structure and clarity to the artwork.
“The Spectacle has, indeed, an emotional attraction of its own, but, of all the parts, it is the least artistic, and connected least with the art of poetry.”	While spectacle can enhance the emotional experience, it is the least important and least connected to the essence of poetry and tragedy.	Aristotle places spectacle at the bottom of the hierarchy of tragic elements.	Emphasizes the primacy of plot, character, and thought over visual spectacle, suggesting that true tragedy relies more on narrative and thematic elements than on visual effects.

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