In Aristotle's view, tragedy should evoke which emotions in the audience?

In Aristotle's view, tragedy should evoke which emotions in the audience?

• A. Terror and pity
• B. Joy and confidence
• C. Anger and disgust
• D. Surprise and confusion

Answer: (A)

Aristotle holds that tragedy should stir fear (often translated as terror) and pity in the audience, and through witnessing the protagonist’s suffering, the audience experiences catharsis—an emotional cleansing or purging. The typical tragic hero is admirable but flawed, facing a reversal of fortune and a moment of recognition. This setup makes us feel pity for the character’s misfortune and fear that similar vulnerability could be our own lot if we err or misjudge circumstances. The goal isn’t to entertain with joy or to provoke other strong emotions, but to provoke these two for the sake of moral insight and emotional insight through a vicarious experience. That cathartic release is what Aristotle saw as the purpose of tragedy.

Aristotle holds that tragedy should stir fear (often translated as terror) and pity in the audience, and through witnessing the protagonist’s suffering, the audience experiences catharsis—an emotional cleansing or purging. The typical tragic hero is admirable but flawed, facing a reversal of fortune and a moment of recognition. This setup makes us feel pity for the character’s misfortune and fear that similar vulnerability could be our own lot if we err or misjudge circumstances. The goal isn’t to entertain with joy or to provoke other strong emotions, but to provoke these two for the sake of moral insight and emotional insight through a vicarious experience. That cathartic release is what Aristotle saw as the purpose of tragedy.