Aristotle on Tragedy: Oedipus, Catharsis & What Makes Great Art

Aristotle's Poetics explained — why tragedy is the highest form of poetry, what mimesis and catharsis really mean, and why Oedipus Rex is his perfect example. Dr Scott Masson walks through Aristotle's Poetics section by section: imitation as the common principle of all arts, plot vs character, thought and diction, pity and fear, and how Aristotle answers Plato on poets, truth, and human nature. Perfect for students of English literature, philosophy, classics, and great books. 📚 CHAPTERS 00:00 - Plato vs Aristotle on poetry 08:00 - Mimesis: imitation as the essence of art 18:00 - The four causes and how to judge a poem 28:00 - What is tragedy? Serious, complete, of a certain magnitude 40:00 - Plot is the soul of tragedy: character, thought, diction 52:00 - Oedipus Rex: hamartia, pity and fear 01:05:00 - Poetry is more philosophical than history ❤️ If you find this helpful, become a channel member:    / drscottmasson   ❤️ Subscribe to my Substack: https://drscottmasson.substack.com/ ❤️ Support the channel: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?token=... #catharsis #tragedy #english literature #mimesis #aristotle