Describe what aristotle means by catharsis

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Reference no: EM133367852

In your first essay, you will conduct research on Aristotle's theories related to Greek tragedy, and 1000 word paper, you will:

Describe what Aristotle means by catharsis, and how Greek tragedy accomplished this concept.
Outline what elements within a tragedy ensure this catharsis occurs within the audience.
Then you will CHOOSE to either

OPTION I: Explain why Aristotle believed Oedipus Rex to be the best example of Greek tragedy. Critically evaluate the play in light of your reading of Aristotle's theories. Does this play, in your opinion, help the modern reader experience catharsis as described by Aristotle? Why or why not? (The answer to this would make an effective thesis statement).

OR OPTION 2: Find and read/watch a contemporary example of a film or novel that holds up to the elements of a successful, cathartic tragedy according to Aristotle's standards, as outlined in Poetics. Critically evaluate your chosen work in light of your reading of Aristotle's theories. How does your chosen novel or film illustrate Aristotle's criteria? In your opinion, how is catharsis effective to the audience regarding your chosen work? (The answer to this would make an effective thesis statement).

As part of your essay, you may provide a brief summary of the play or your chosen work of comparison (no more than ½ a page in length - imagine that your reader is already familiar with the work). Be sure to refer specifically to both Aristotle's ideas and the content of your chosen comparison for support. You must cite specific passages from Poetics and either Oedipus or your chosen comparison (this means you must specifically cite lines/pages/passages from these works).
Always discuss quoted material. Tell your reader what the quoted passages mean to you and explain how they support your argument. You should aim to have no less than five citations from each work, if not more.
You are required to use at least one outside source (in addition to the primary texts) for this paper. Introduce scholars being referenced, and be sure to cite both paraphrased and directly quoted material. Again, discuss any quoted material explaining what it means to you and how it supports your own ideas/analysis.

Reference no: EM133367852

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