Poetics (Penguin Classics)

In one of the most perceptive and influential works of criticism in Western literary history, third century BC Greek philosopher Aristotle examines the literature of his time, describing the origins of poetry as an imitative art and drawing attention to the distinctions between comedy and tragedy. Aristotle helped establish the foundations of Western philosophy, and his influence is evident in philosophical thought today, but in Poetics, he is looking forward as he sees some of the core elements of literature. His illuminating inquiry draws attention to the roots of the written word and is as insightful as his contemplation on life.