Question: Definition of Tragedy.
Introduction
Aristotle (384-322) BC is famous for his contribution to the versatile branches of knowledge. In his “Poetics”, he deals with dramatic art – comedy, tragedy, and epic but “Poetics” is chiefly concerned with the concept of tragedy in detail.
The definition of tragedy
Aristotle in the sixth chapter of his “Poetics” has defined tragedy in the following manner-
“Tragedy, then, is a representation of an action that is worth serious attention, complete in itself, and of some amplitude; in language enriched by a variety of artistic devices appropriate to the several parts of the play; presented in the form of action, not narration; by means of pity and fear bringing about the purgation of such emotion.”
More Notes of Drama
Analysis of the definition
The definition clearly falls into two parts. The first part tells us about the nature of tragedy, its object, its manner, and medium of imitation, and the second part points out the function of tragedy.
Conclusion
So, it can be said that Aristotle’s definition of tragedy has paved the way of literature.
