Poetics Study Guide & Plot Synopsis

Poetics Plot Summary

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The Poetics purports to be systematic analysis of the various types of poetry. In fact, however, the majority of the work is dedicated to studying tragic poetry, the highest form, and briefly discusses epic poetry. The analysis begins by distinguishing poetry from other forms of art: Unlike music, poetry uses only language; unlike prose, poetry uses text in rhythm. With poetry defined, it is necessary to know its purpose. Poetry is naturally attractive to men because it resonates with human nature; above all, poetry is a reflection on human action, and therefore is useful in learning, which is man's chief and highest instinct. Since poetry is spawned of human nature, it is not surprising that the various types of poetry spring from different types of humans. Comedies, for example, come from the souls of men who are less inspired and learned; tragedy, on the other hand, comes from men with...
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