Poetics Study Questions & Topics for Discussion

Poetics Topics for Discussion

What is the definition of poetry?

What distinguishes poetry from prose?

Is Aristotle's definition of poetry correct? Are there examples of writing which fit his definition but which, nonetheless, would not be considered poetry?

What are the components of a well-crafted plot according to Aristotle?

Many stories do not follow the specific guidelines given by Aristotle in this work. Are they flawed?

How much weight should be given to artistic conventions?

Do you agree that man naturally takes pleasure in imitation? If so, why?

What does it mean for one form of art to be higher than another?

Is Aristotle's argument that tragic poetry is higher than epic poetry sound?