Classical Philosophers on Literature: Plato, Aristotle, Longinus

This Routledge Critical Thinker provides an introduction to the literary thought of Plato, Aristotle, and Longinus, highlighting their enduring influence on literature and culture. With an annotated bibliography, it is a valuable resource for Literature students studying theory and criticism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 01 January 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This Routledge Critical Thinker is an introduction to the literary thought of three major classical thinkers: Plato, Aristotle, and Longinus. These thinkers have had a profound impact on the development of literary theory and criticism, and their ideas continue to be relevant to contemporary readers and scholars.

Plato, a Greek philosopher, is considered one of the most influential writers in the history of Western philosophy. His works, such as the Republic and the Symposium, explore themes such as justice, morality, and the nature of reality. Plato's ideas about the importance of dialogue and the role of the philosopher in society have had a lasting influence on the development of literary theory.

Aristotle, a Greek philosopher and scientist, is known for his systematic approach to understanding the world. His works, such as the Physics and the Metaphysics, explore topics such as matter, energy, and the nature of the soul. Aristotle's ideas about the importance of empirical observation and logical reasoning have had a significant impact on the development of scientific theory and the study of literature.

Longinus, a Roman poet and critic, is known for his influential work, On the Sublime. In this work, he explores the concept of the sublime, which he defines as a feeling of awe and reverence for the natural world and the power of art to evoke it. Longinus's ideas about the relationship between the sublime and the human soul have had a profound impact on the development of aesthetic theory and the study of literature.

Eaglestone argues that while great thinkers of antiquity may seem far away, their ideas still shape how we think about literature and culture even today. Contemporary examples illustrate the meaning of the original texts and highlight their continuous relevance.

Including an annotated bibliography, this guide offers a literary introduction to these classical thinkers and is ideal for Literature students studying theory and criticism. It provides a comprehensive overview of their ideas and their impact on the development of literary theory and criticism, and encourages readers to explore their works further.

In conclusion, this Routledge Critical Thinker is an essential resource for anyone interested in the literary thought of Plato, Aristotle, and Longinus. It provides a comprehensive introduction to their ideas and their impact on the development of literary theory and criticism, and encourages readers to explore their works further.

Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780415750332