Mimesis is a term that carries a wide range of meanings, including imitation, nonsensuous similarity, receptivity, representation, mimicry, the act of expression, the act of resembling, and the presentation of the self1. It’s used in literary criticism and philosophy1. The original Ancient Greek term mīmēsis (μίμησις) derives from mīmeisthai (μιμεῖσθαι, ‘to imitate’), itself coming from mimos (μῖμος, ‘imitator, actor’)1.

In ancient Greece, mimesis was an idea that governed the creation of works of art, with correspondence to the physical world understood as a model for beauty, truth, and the good1. Plato contrasted mimesis, or imitation, with diegesis, or narrative1. After Plato, the meaning of mimesis eventually shifted toward a specifically literary function in ancient Greek society1.

One of the best-known modern studies of mimesis—understood in literature as a form of realism—is Erich Auerbach’s Mimesis: The Representation of Reality in Western Literature1.

The word is Greek and means “imitation” (though in the sense of “re-presentation” rather than of “copying”). Plato and Aristotle spoke of mimesis as the re-presentation of nature2. It describes the process of imitation or mimicry through which artists portray and interpret the world3.

Rejection of imitative

Plato and Aristotle were both philosophers in ancient Greece who critically studied matters of ethics, science, politics, and more1. Here are some key differences between them:

1. Theories of Forms: Plato conceived the Forms as perfect exemplars or ideal types of the properties and kinds found in the world. For example, the properties “beautiful” and “black” correspond to the Forms the Beautiful and the Black2. Aristotle, on the other hand, did not seriously consider this theory2.
2. Reality and Truth: Plato believed in an objective reality and absolute truth, while Aristotle thought reality was subjective and that truth was relative3.
3. Focus of Philosophy: Plato’s philosophy stresses ethics and morality, while Aristotle’s philosophy focuses on politics and science3.
4. Empirical Observation vs Ideal Forms: Aristotle emphasized empirical observation and practical knowledge, while Plato focused on ideal forms and metaphysical concepts4.
5. Influence: Plato influenced Aristotle, just as Socrates influenced Plato. However, each man’s influence moved in different areas after their deaths1. For centuries, classical education assigned Plato’s works as required reading, and his works were used until his academy closed in 529 A.D1. Aristotle’s scientific observations were considered the last word in knowledge until about the 16th century1.
6. Literary Style: Plato is described as a literary genius, an impassioned advocate, and a brilliant dialectician. His philosophy is likened to a turbulent river5. Aristotle is described as a scientific genius, a patient debater, and the undisputed master of logic. His philosophy is likened to a vast, unruffled pond5.

Plato “bad one should be punished” Aristo “you must represent life as it is” ought to- ought not to

Summarize Plato’s approach to literary criticism.

Aristotle

Horace

Longinus

Plotinus