Aristotle's Poetics

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In this, the fullest, sustained interpretation of Aristotle's Poetics available in English, Stephen Halliwell demonstrates that the Poetics , despite its laconic brevity, is a coherent statement of a challenging theory of poetic art, and it hints towards a theory of mimetic art in general. Assessing this theory against the background of earlier Greek views on poetry and art, particularly Plato's, Halliwell goes further than any previous author in setting Aristotle's ideas in the wider context of his philosophical system.

The core of the book is a fresh appraisal of Aristotle's view of tragic drama, in which Halliwell contends that at the heart of the Poetics lies a philosophical urge to instill a secularized understanding of Greek tragedy.

"Essential reading not only for all serious students of the Poetics . . . but also for those—the great majority—who have prudently fought shy of it altogether."—B. R. Rees, Classical Review

"A splendid work of scholarship and analysis . . . a brilliant interpretation."—Alexander Nehamas, Times Literary Supplement

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6 reviews All reviews
July 15,2025
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A brilliant work of long, deep thought on The Poetics has emerged. It is an extremely dense piece that demands focused attention from the reader. However, the effort invested is richly rewarded. As one delves into its pages, a much enhanced understanding of Aristotle and Greek Tragedy begins to unfold. The author has painstakingly explored the nuances and subtleties of these topics, presenting a comprehensive and thought-provoking analysis. Each paragraph is filled with profound insights and interpretations that challenge the reader to think deeply and question their preconceived notions. This work is not only a valuable resource for scholars and students of literature but also for anyone with an interest in the history and development of drama. It offers a unique perspective on the art of tragedy and the role it played in ancient Greek society.

July 15,2025
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If you have a passion for writing or if you are eager to enhance your comprehension of literature, then this book is an absolute must-read. Within its pages, Aristotle expounds upon the laws that govern literature. It is truly astonishing to note how remarkably fresh his ideas remain even after all these years. Moreover, the applicability of his concepts is equally remarkable. They continue to hold great significance and relevance in the field of literature today. Whether you are a budding writer seeking to refine your craft or a literature enthusiast渴望深入探索文学的奥秘, this book offers invaluable insights and perspectives. It provides a framework upon which you can build your understanding and appreciation of the written word. So, don't hesitate to pick up this book and embark on a journey of discovery and enlightenment.

July 15,2025
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Not the right edition, but G1 reading list.

This reading list for G1 students might not be in the exact edition you were expecting. However, it still contains a wonderful selection of books that are sure to engage and educate young readers.

The G1 reading list is carefully curated to introduce children to different genres, such as fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. It includes classic tales that have been loved by generations, as well as modern works that offer fresh perspectives and exciting stories.

By exploring the books on this list, G1 students can improve their vocabulary, comprehension skills, and love for reading. Whether they are reading independently or with an adult, these books will open up a world of imagination and learning.

So, even though it may not be the right edition, the G1 reading list is a valuable resource for young readers to embark on their literary journey.
July 15,2025
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**14 Classic College Books You’ll Want to Read Again as a Real Adult**

As we grow from college students to real adults, there are certain classic books that take on new meanings and offer deeper insights. These 14 books are not only educational but also entertaining, and they can help us to better understand ourselves and the world around us.



One of the life lessons that we can learn from these books is that emotion and tension in art come through form. The way that a story is told, the structure of a poem, or the composition of a painting all contribute to the overall impact of the work. By paying attention to the form, we can gain a greater appreciation for the art and the emotions that it evokes.



Some of the classic college books on this list include Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, and The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. These books are not only beloved for their engaging stories but also for their masterful use of language and form.



Whether you're looking to expand your literary horizons or simply revisit some old favorites, these 14 classic college books are sure to provide hours of enjoyment and inspiration.

July 15,2025
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I finally managed to read this. The reason I read it was not for anything else but simply to be able to say “I’ve read Aristotle’s Poetics.” After all the efforts and time spent, now I can proudly claim that “I’ve read Aristotle’s Poetics.” It feels like a sense of accomplishment. I’ve delved into the words and ideas of Aristotle in this renowned work. It has given me a glimpse into his thoughts on various aspects of poetry, such as its nature, purpose, and different forms. Reading “Aristotle’s Poetics” has been an interesting and enlightening experience. It makes me appreciate the depth and significance of this classic piece of literature. I’m glad that I took the time to read it and can now add it to my list of literary achievements.

July 15,2025
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How does one pen a less than outstanding review of one of the greatest masterpieces by one of the most renowned philosophers in history? By delving into its readability compared to the value obtained.

Firstly, if one has perused any competent summaries or discussions regarding Aristotle's perspectives on poetry and literature (even on grammar), there is not much that is distinct here. However, perhaps due to translation, it may be a bit more perplexing in certain areas. If not, scholarly summaries of his views are more succinct and revealing regarding the fundamentals. The Poetics is concise, and Aristotle expends little time diagramming and categorizing his subjects: what makes poetry/drama valuable and how can one tell?

Reading the work directly also presents some surprises. For example, I was unaware of how much time Aristotle would devote (especially in the second half of the work) to discussing the historical subtleties of Greek grammar in terms of its literary function. Just for this reason - as it is almost literally inaccessible to me - if one does not read Greek, this part of the work is not very approachable! Confining the remainder of this review to the broader discussion of literature in the first half, then, I was pleased to see him cite numerous examples of poetry and performances of his era, naming works and writers both historical and contemporary, and weighing their artistic prowess against one another. Spoiler: Euripides is one of his favorites.

All in all, however, I finished the work having learned little that I had not previously studied. On the other hand, I gained a better appreciation not only for what the philosopher established for Western art but also for how narrow and restricted that foundation has since become for the imaginative possibilities that art now explores.
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