Aristotle’s Definition of Tragedy

Answer

Write and explain Aristotle’s definition of tragedy. 

or, Discuss Aristotle’s concept of tragedy. Or, write and enumerate Aristotle’s definition of tragedy. Or, how does Aristotle define tragedy? Do you think his definition still holds good?

Aristotle (384-322 BC) is famous for his contribution to the versatile branches of knowledge. In his “Poetics,” he deals with dramatic art – comedy, tragedy, and epic but “Poetics” is chiefly concerned with the concept of tragedy in detail. Aristotle was the first critic of literature, and the world can learn about dramatic art through him.

The Definition of Tragedy: Aristotle, in the sixth chapter of his “Poetics,” has defined tragedy in the following manner-

Tragedy, then, is a representation of an action that is worth serious attention, complete in itself, and of some amplitude; in language enriched by a variety of artistic devices appropriate to the several parts of the play; presented in the form of action, not narration; by means of pity and fear, bringing about the purgation [catharsis] of such emotions.

Analysis of the Definition: The definition clearly has two parts. The first part tells us about the nature of tragedy, its object, its manner, and its medium of imitation, and the second part points out its function. Now, the requirements of tragedy are enumerated here in a transparent way.

Different from Other Forms of Poetic Imitation: According to the definition of tragedy, tragedy is different from other poetic imitations. It differs from other arts in the object, manner, and medium of imitation. Its object of imitation is ‘serious action,’ which stands for weighty and important action according to the critics. Aristotle says:

Tragedy is not an imitation of persons, but of actions and of life.

On the other hand, a comedy, which is also a poetic imitation, imitates ‘grotesque action. In terms of the manner of imitation, tragedy is contrary to epic. Epic uses a narrative manner, while tragedy represents life through acting. Therefore, tragedy is lifelike.

The action: Aristotle does not define