The Poetics of Aristotle
The Poetics of Aristotle is the oldest surviving work of literary theory and still the most argued over. In a short, incomplete treatise, probably lecture notes, Aristotle describes poetry as imitation, distinguishes epic, tragedy and comedy, and gives tragedy the definition that has been quoted ever since: an action that is serious, complete and of a certain magnitude, arousing pity and fear and producing the catharsis of those emotions. He discusses plot, character, reversal and recognition, the tragic flaw, unity of action and the difference between history and poetry, with Sophocles and Homer as his examples. This edition presents S. H. Butcher's translation, long the standard English version. It is available to read online in your browser on Vinteuil, with the first chapter free.
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Frequently asked questions about The Poetics of Aristotle
The Poetics of Aristotle by Aristotle can be read online on Vinteuil, directly in your browser. The first chapter is free for everyone; the complete book is included in Vinteuil Reading ($4.99/month or $39.99/year) or yours forever for $2.99.
Can I read The Poetics of Aristotle online?
Yes. The Poetics of Aristotle opens right on this page, in a reader designed for long reading: adjustable text size, light, sepia and dark themes, a clickable table of contents and your place saved when you are signed in. No download or app is needed.
Is The Poetics of Aristotle free to read on Vinteuil?
The first chapter of The Poetics of Aristotle is free, without an account. To read the whole book, either buy its online reading for $2.99 (£2.99 in the UK) and keep it forever, or subscribe to Vinteuil Reading for $4.99/month (£4.99/month in the UK) or $39.99/year, with 1 month free for new subscribers. The subscription opens every book in the library and can be cancelled at any time.
Is The Poetics of Aristotle in the public domain?
Yes. The Poetics of Aristotle by Aristotle is a public-domain work, here in the translation by S. H. Butcher. Vinteuil offers a carefully prepared digital edition made for comfortable reading on screen.
How long does it take to read The Poetics of Aristotle?
About 1 h of reading, at an average reading pace. Your place is saved automatically when you are signed in, so you can read in several sittings and on several devices.
What kind of book is The Poetics of Aristotle?
The Poetics of Aristotle by Aristotle is filed under "Poetry" in the Vinteuil library.
