Aristotle's "Poetics" primarily focuses on dramatic literature and provides a comprehensive analysis of Greek tragedy. However, there is no explicit theory of mimes in Aristotle's "Poetics." Instead, Aristotle discusses the concepts of mimesis and catharsis, which are integral to his understanding of tragedy.
Mimesis, in Aristotle's context, refers to the imitation or representation of human actions in literature. He argues that all forms of art are imitative and that the purpose of art is to imitate life. In the realm of tragedy, mimesis involves the representation of serious and complete actions that evoke pity and fear in the audience. Aristotle believes that through mimesis, artists can achieve a heightened emotional experience that leads to catharsis.
Catharsis is a crucial concept in Aristotle's "Poetics." It refers to the purgation or purification of emotions, particularly pity and fear, through the vicarious experience of tragedy. Aristotle suggests that by witnessing the tragic events and the suffering of the characters on stage, the audience can undergo a purifying emotional release. This cathartic effect is therapeutic and contributes to the overall impact of tragedy as an art form.
Aristotle outlines several key elements of a successful tragedy, and these elements are closely related to his theories of mimesis and catharsis. One such element is the concept of a complete and unified action. Aristotle argues that a tragedy should have a tightly-knit plot with a beginning, middle, and end, portraying a single, significant action. This unity of action contributes to the effectiveness of mimesis by allowing the audience to engage with a coherent and emotionally resonant narrative.
Moreover, Aristotle emphasizes the importance of the tragic hero—a character of noble stature and virtue who experiences a reversal of fortune due to a tragic flaw or error in judgment. The tragic hero's downfall evokes feelings of pity and fear in the audience, intensifying the mimetic and cathartic aspects of the play.
While Aristotle's "Poetics" does not explicitly delve into a theory of mimes, his discussions on mimesis and catharsis provide a foundation for understanding the role of imitation and emotional purgation in the context of tragic literature. These concepts have had a profound and enduring impact on the study of literature, drama, and aesthetics, influencing generations of writers, critics, and scholars.