12 Questions
What does Aristotle argue about the sequence of events in a play?
It should move from bad to good.
What does Aristotle refer to as the ethos in a play?
The agents or actors' morality.
According to Aristotle, what does dianoia refer to in a play?
The way characters express themselves.
What does 'Diction' refer to in the context of a play?
The language used in the play.
In Aristotle's view, what is music (melos) related to in a play?
Movement and rhythm in the performance.
What is the term used for characters who express themselves through monologues or dialogues in contemporary times?
Dianoia characters
What term does Aristotle use to describe the sequence of events in a play that should move from bad to good, ultimately leading to a moment of catharsis?
Mythos
In Aristotle's view, what does 'Ethos' refer to in a play?
Morality of the decisions made by characters
Which term does Aristotle use to describe the manner in which characters express themselves through the play, usually to justify or explain their actions?
Dianoia
What aspect of a play does 'Diction' refer to according to Aristotle?
The language used in the play
Which term does Aristotle use to describe the language of a play?
Melos
According to Aristotle, what does 'Music' refer to in the context of a play?
Actual musical score or accompaniment
Study Notes
Aristotle's Views on Play Elements
- Aristotle argues that the sequence of events in a play should follow a logical and coherent order, with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
Ethos and Characters
- Aristotle refers to the ethos in a play as the character's moral character, including their personality, values, and moral principles.
- In contemporary times, characters who express themselves through monologues or dialogues are referred to as personas.
Dianoia and Thought
- According to Aristotle, dianoia refers to the thought or intellectual content behind a play, including the ideas, themes, and concepts that the playwright wants to convey.
Diction and Language
- Diction refers to the language and wording used in a play, including the tone, style, and rhythm of the dialogue.
- Aristotle uses the term "lexis" to describe the language of a play.
Music and Melos
- In Aristotle's view, music (melos) is related to the rhythm and melody of a play, including the sound effects, music, and other auditory elements that enhance the overall mood and atmosphere.
Plot Structure and Catharsis
- Aristotle uses the term "plot" to describe the sequence of events in a play that should move from bad to good, ultimately leading to a moment of catharsis, or emotional purging.
- The goal of the plot is to create a sense of catharsis in the audience, allowing them to experience a range of emotions and emerge feeling purified and cleansed.
Test your knowledge on the key elements of tragedy according to Aristotle's Poetics, including mythos, ethos, catharsis, and the structure of a tragic plot.
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