Or, Discuss Aristotle’s theory of mimesis.

The Greek word for imitation is mimesis. This means that artists copy or represent real things in their work. In “Poetics” (335 BC), Aristotle (384-322 BC) says that all poetry and art are forms of imitation. By imitation, he means copying life or human actions. But not all imitations are the same. They are different in many ways. However, Imitation is the main idea behind all art.

Imitation as Creation: Aristotle said imitation means creating. It is not just about copying. Poets take real-life things but turn them into something new. In tragedy, characters are shown better than real people. In comedy, they are worse. This selection helps show general truths. So, imitation helps people understand life in a better way.

Medium, Object, and Manner: Imitation is different in three ways:

Medium: How it is shown: through words, music, or rhythm. For example, epics use words; music uses melody.

Object: What is shown: actions, emotions, or morals. Tragedy shows noble people; comedy shows their faults. About the object of imitation, Aristotle Says,

“The objects the imitator represents are actions with agents who are necessarily either good men or bad.”

Pleasure in Imitation: People enjoy imitation by nature. Even ugly things (like a dead body) can give joy in art. This is because we can recognize and understand them. Art helps us see and learn hard truths in a safe way. That is why it gives us catharsis.

Poetry vs. History: Aristotle says poetry is better than history. History tells us what really happened. But poetry shows what could happen in real life. This makes poetry more general and meaningful. It is evident in the following quotation: 

“Poetry, therefore, is a more philosophical and a higher thing than history: for poetry tends to express the universal, history the particular.”  

In short, Plato thought art was a “false copy.” Unlike Plato, Aristotle believed imitation was creative and useful. He defends poetry as a powerful way to show truth. Imitation is not false. Instead, it helps us see life’s meaning. Poetry mixes real life with ideals. This teaches people and touches their hearts. His thoughts still guide how we understand literature today.