Subject
Aristotle, 384 BC-322 BC. Poetics Books
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Gotthold Ephraim Lessing
Hamburgische Dramaturgie
"Hamburgische Dramaturgie" by Gotthold Ephraim Lessing is a work on drama written between 1767 and 1769. Originally conceived as theater criticism during Lessing's tenure as dramaturg at Hamburg's German National Theater, this collection revolutionized dramatic theory. Lessing reinterpreted Aristotle's ideas about tragedy, arguing that audiences must feel empathy rather than mere terror. He championed natural, probable plots and characters resembling ordinary people—even when depicting kings. His vision challenged baroque theater's rigid conventions and helped establish bourgeois drama as a new theatrical form.
André Dacier
The Preface to Aristotle's Art of Poetry
"The Preface to Aristotle's Art of Poetry" by André Dacier is a critical publication from the early 18th century, specifically written in the early 1700s. As a commentary on Aristotle's influential work on poetic theory, this book deals with the principles of writing and appreciating poetry, particularly focusing on tragedy and its moral and instructional roles in society. Dacier's preface articulates neo-classical ideas that were prominent during his time, advocating for the importance of rules in poetic creation. In this preface, Dacier not only defends Aristotle's guidelines but also emphasizes poetry's purpose as a means to instruct and elevate the human spirit. He argues that true tragedy, following Aristotle’s principles, serves to moderate human passions and impart moral lessons to the audience. Dacier tracks the evolution of poetry from its religious roots to its current form, asserting that its revival and proper application must adhere to established rules. Throughout the text, he reflects on the societal function of tragedy, proposing that it should foster virtue and promote self-reflection among viewers. Dacier’s preface ultimately serves as a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern poetic practice, advocating for the preservation of classical standards in the arts.
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