According to Aristotle, what distinguishes tragedy from other forms of drama
Question
According to Aristotle, what distinguishes tragedy from other forms of drama
Solution
Aristotle, in his work "Poetics", distinguishes tragedy from other forms of drama in several ways:
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Plot: Aristotle believed that the plot is the most important element of a tragedy. The plot must be a complete, whole action with a beginning, middle, and end. It should also be of a certain magnitude, both in terms of its duration and its complexity.
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Character: The main character in a tragedy, according to Aristotle, must be a person of high status or nobility. This character should also have a tragic flaw, or hamartia, which leads to his or her downfall.
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Catharsis: Aristotle argued that a tragedy should evoke feelings of fear and pity in the audience, leading to a catharsis, or purging of these emotions.
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Language: Tragedy, Aristotle said, should be written in a dignified and elevated language, often in verse rather than prose.
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Thought/Theme: The thought or theme of the tragedy should be serious and profound, dealing with issues of great significance and universal importance.
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Spectacle: Although spectacle (the staging and visual elements of the production) is the least important element of tragedy according to Aristotle, he acknowledged that it can contribute to the overall effect of the play.
These are the main elements that, according to Aristotle, distinguish tragedy from other forms of drama.
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