Discuss in Detail Aristotle’s Concept of the Complex Plot
Poetics is a notable literary work by Aristotle. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, to various questions of Poetics.
Answer
Discuss in detail Aristotle’s concept of the complex plot.
Or, Why does Aristotle prefer a complex plot to a simple plot for tragedy?
Aristotle (384-322 BC) consulted the guidelines for producing literary works, especially tragedy, in his “Poetics.” He is perfect for selecting or preferring the plot of tragedy since the plot is the soul of tragedy. He provides some logic for the complex plot to produce a better tragedy.
Definition of Plot: Plot refers to the sequence of events or proper arrangement of incidents. According to Aristotle, a simple definition of a plot is:
For by plot I here mean the arrangement of the incidents.
Genre of Plot: The plot is two types in accordance with Aristotle such as:
Simple Plot: It means a plain change of fortune without any twist. The plot of J.M. Synge’s one-act play Riders to the Sea is an emblem of a simple plot.
Complex Plot: It indicates a superb twist for the incidents. Aristotle mentions a complex plot in the 10th chapter of his “Poetics”.
A Complex action is one in which the change is accompanied by such Reversal, or by Recognition, or by both.
The plot of the Greek tragedy “Oedipus Rex” is a token of the complex plot.
Aristotle’s Preference/Choice: As we know, the plot is the first and foremost principle of tragedy among the six constituents and has achieved the utmost significance for tragedy. Aristotle prefers complex plots, such as the plot of tragedy. Aristotle says about the tragedy:
Tragedy is an imitation of an action that is complete, and whole, and of a certain magnitude.
Aristotle prefers complex plots for the following reasons.
Character Development: Through a complex plot, Aristotle argued that characters could undergo significant transformations and reveal their true nature. Aristotle says about the unity of the plot:
Unity of plot does not, as some persons think, consist in the unity of the hero.
The reversal of fortune and unexpected events force characters to confront challenges, make choices, and exhibit their virtues or flaws. This character development adds depth and complexity to the dramatic work.
Imitation of reality: Aristotle believed that drama should imitate human life and the events that occur within it. By incorporating a complex plot involving unexpected twists and turns, he believed that drama could better reflect the unpredictability and complexity of real-life situations.
Emotional impact: Aristotle recognized the importance of evoking emotions in the audience. He argued that a complex plot, with its element of surprise and reversal, could generate a stronger emotional response from the spectators. This emotional engagement was crucial for the cathartic effect that drama aimed to achieve.
In conclusion, it can be asserted that Aristotle’s recommendation about the plot of the tragedy is the landmark of his “Poetics.” Though the modern plot construction of drama has changed, Aristotle still exists and will exist forever.