How does Aristotle compare and contrast tragedy with epic poetry in “Poetics?”
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, and various study materials of Poetics.
Answer
How does Aristotle compare and contrast tragedy with epic poetry in “Poetics?”
Or, What are Aristotle’s arguments in favor of tragedy over epic poetry?
In “Poetics” (335 BCE), Aristotle (384 BCE to 322 BCE) talks about both tragedy and epic poetry. He shows how they are similar in some ways but also different. Both tell serious stories using beautiful language. Both can be simple or complex. But Aristotle thinks tragedy is better than epic poetry. He gives clear reasons to support his view. He says tragedy is more emotional, more complete, and gives stronger pleasure. Let us now look at how he compares the two and why he prefers tragedy.
Similar Things: Aristotle says that tragedy and epic poetry have many things in common. Both have a plot, characters, and strong emotions. Both can be based on surprises (peripeteia), discoveries (anagnorisis), and suffering. Homer’s epics (Iliad, Odyssey) and Greek tragedies (Oedipus Rex) follow these rules. They also use poetic language and rhythm. The stories can be simple or full of twists. They both try to give pleasure by telling sad and serious stories.
Length Matters: Epic poetry is longer and uses narration. It can show many events at once. Tragedy is shorter and acted on stage. It focuses on one main action. Epics like “The Odyssey” cover years, but tragedies like “Oedipus Rex” happen in a day. Aristotle says tragedy’s compact structure makes it more intense. Epics can feel scattered because they include side stories. A unified plot, as in tragedy, keeps the audience engaged. Aristotle says about length followingly:
“Once more, the Epic imitation has less unity; as is shown by this, that any Epic poem will furnish subjects for several tragedies.”
Metre and Style: Epic poetry uses a special rhythm called heroic metre. It fits the grand style of epic stories. This metre sounds serious and allows poets to use big or rare words. Aristotle says this is right for epics but not for tragedies. Tragedies need words that are closer to real-life speech. InUnlock this study guide now