Question

Which of the following statements are true with respect to Aristotle's classic analysis of Tragedy in his Poetics?
(A). Tragedy is mimesis.
(B). Tragedy intends to accomplish the catharsis of emotions like pity and fear.
(C). The tragic hero is an everyday person with ordinary moral worth.
(D). It is hamartia, which often leads the tragic hero into a state of suffering.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (D) only
• B. (A), (B) and (C) only
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D)
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only

Hint:

Remember Aristotle's ideal tragic hero: Not a saint, not a villain, but a noble person whose own flaw (hamartia) leads to their downfall, causing the audience to feel pity and fear. This helps to rule out the idea of an "everyday person."

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question requires identifying accurate tenets of Aristotle's theory of tragedy, as presented in his work, Poetics.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Each statement is evaluated against Aristotle's principles:
\[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{(A) Tragedy is mimesis. This is correct. Aristotle argues that tragedy, like all poetry, is a form of imitation (mimesis) of human action. } \\ \bullet & \text{(B) Tragedy intends to accomplish catharsis of emotions like pity and fear. This is correct. Aristotle defines tragedy as a form that evokes pity and fear, leading to catharsis (purgation or clarification) of these emotions. } \\ \bullet & \text{(C) The tragic hero is an everyday person with ordinary moral worth. This is incorrect. Aristotle states the tragic hero should be of noble character, "better than we are," though not perfect, and of high standing. Their downfall from greatness makes the tragedy impactful. } \\ \bullet & \text{(D) Hamartia often leads the tragic hero into suffering. This is correct. Aristotle argues the hero's downfall stems from hamartia—a tragic flaw, error in judgment, or mistake—not from vice. } \\ \end{array}\]Therefore, statements (A), (B), and (D) are true, while (C) is false.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct option is (A), which includes only (A), (B), and (D).