Theory of Mimesis (Plato)
Philosopher
Ideal State
"Ion", "The Symposium", "The Republic" (375 BC)
Art---Poetry---discussed in relation to the welfare state---??
Welfare State
Can artists (and poets) play a +ve role in the welfare of the state?
NO! Poets and artists should be banished from the state! (Plato's View)
Mimesis= imitation=copying something
Art/Poetry is mimetic in nature.
(Literature is a reflection of life)---representation.
scattered thoughts on art and artists
Everybody has to work together to build a welfare state. Each and every individual has a role to play.
Rejects Poetry/Art. Banishes poets and artists from the ideal state.
Three Objections Against Poetry
- twice removed from reality
- appeals to the emotive side rather than the logical side
- corrupts people---only a very few escape
inferior side= emotion. superior side= intellect/logic
Masses= unable think and act logically/rationally