Mimesis, Morality and Truth: Plato as a genius Literary Critic

This paper aims at exploring Plato, an important literary critic who presented his ideas about literature which are presented in his works. Plato’s views were considered as an imitation (mimesis) of reality he always considers poetries as an imagination he explores the purpose of nature his theory of mimesis consider as imitation Plato always criticizes the poets for unrealistic presenting of human emotions. He asserts that poetry can affect human nature, emotions, behaviour and suggested that poetry must be realistic. For Plato, poetry should promote truth and good character. His criticism reflects the relationship between art and morality. For Plato literature shows the physical word which is totally unrealistic and imperfect he considers the distance of poetry from truth. His criticism represents responsibility of literature to contribute positively the characters. His views were strict on poetry and have shaped development of literary history.