Comparing Plato and Aristotle PDF

Themes Plato Aristotle Metaphysics Theory of Forms: Form and matter ar Abstract, eternal Forms inseparable, and realit )abstract) are the true reality, a...

Themes Plato Aristotle Metaphysics Theory of Forms: Form and matter ar Abstract, eternal Forms inseparable, and realit )abstract) are the true reality, and found in physical thing the material world is a themselves. mere reflection. Rationalism: Empiricism: Knowled Knowledge comes from Epistemology comes from sensory reason and (knowledge experience and contemplation of the theory) observation of the nat Forms. Sensory world. experience is deceptive. Ethics Idealism: The good life Virtue Ethics: is achieved through Eudaimonia (flourish contemplation of the Politics Philosopher-Kings: Ideal Pragmatic Government: A society is ruled by mixed government, with a philosopher-kings who strong middle class, is best understand the Form of the for promoting the common Good. A hierarchical and good and political stability. elitist society. cosmology Naturalistic: The physical world Dualistic: The material world is real and worth studying. is a shadow of the true, eternal Everything has a purpose or reality of the Forms. (goal). soul Immortal Soul: The soul Integrated Soul: The soul is preexists the body and is the form of the body and cannot divided into reason, spirit, and exist independently. It is the appetite. The soul seeks to principle of life, responsible for return to the realm of Forms. various capacities. Art Imitation of Imitation: Art is a Catharsis: Art, especially copy of the material world, tragedy, has value in purging which is already a copy of the emotions and providing insig Forms, and thus leads away into human nature. from truth. View of Dynamic: Change and motio Static: The realm of Forms is change are central to understanding unchanging, and true knowledge natural world. Everything mo is about what is eternal. toward its purpose or goal. Governme Practical Governance: A m nt Utopian Vision: Philosopher- constitution with elements of structure kings rule, and society is monarchy, and democracy is structured around wisdom and ideal for ensuring balance an knowledge of the Good. stability. Aristotle's definitions of Tragedy and the Tragic hero in his work Poetics. Here are the key elements of his definitions: 1.Definition of Tragedy: Aristotle defines tragedy as: “Tragedy is an 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 narrative; through pity and fear Key Elements of Tragedy: --Imitation of Action: Tragedy imitates real life but in a way that is more serious and significant, focusing on universal themes like fate, morality, or human nature. --Seriousness and Magnitude: The events in a tragedy are of great importance and involve serious moral or existential questions. --Complete: The action has a clear beginning, middle, and end, leading to a resolution. --Artistic Ornamentation: The language is elevated and often includes poetic devices, appropriate to the dignity of the themes. Action, Not Narrative: Tragedy is primarily about showing events through dramatic action rather than telling them through narration. Catharsis: Tragedy evokes emotions of pity and fear in the audience, leading to catharsis, or a purging and purification of these emotions. The audience experiences these emotions and is Definition of Tragic Hero: A tragic hero is a key figure in Aristotle's concept of tragedy. According to Aristotle, the tragic hero has several essential characteristics: Characteristics of the Tragic Hero: Noble Stature or High Status: The tragic hero is usually someone of high rank or importance, often a king, prince, or great leader. This makes their downfall more impactful. Hamartia (Tragic Flaw): The hero has a flaw or makes a mistake (hamartia), which leads to their downfall. This flaw is often an error in judgment or a weakness in character (e.g., excessive pride or hubris). Hubris: While not present in all tragedies, hubris (excessive pride) is a common flaw in tragic heroes. This overconfidence often leads to the hero's downfall. Peripeteia (Reversal of Fortune): The tragic hero’s life takes a dramatic turn from happiness to suffering due to their mistake or flaw. This reversal is essential to the tragic structure. Anagnosriis (Recognition): The tragic hero experiences a moment of recognition or self- awareness, realizing their mistake or understanding the true nature of their situation, often when it’s too late to change their fate. Suffering and Catharsis: The downfall of the tragic hero evokes pity and fear in the audience. The suffering of the hero, while sometimes undeserved, brings about catharsis for both the hero and the audience.