GOVT.

ISLAMIA GRADUATE COLLEGE GUJRANWALA

DEPARTMENT OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND
LITERATURE .

Plot with reference to

Aristotle’s Poetics

Written by: Miss, Farah Mubeen.

Submitted to: Professor, Awais Akram.
 Outline of the content.
➢ Introduction.
➢ Defining a Plot.
➢ Unity and Structure.
➢ Concept of Unities.
➢ Probability and Necessity.
➢ Structure of Plot.
➢ Reversal and Recognition.
➢ Character and Thought.
➢ Length and Complexity
➢ Plot as a Living Organism
➢ Kinds of Plot.
➢ Difference between Simple and Complex Plot.
➢ Conclusion.
INTRODUCTION:
In Aristotle’s Poetics, the Plot
serves as the foundational structure of a drama,
embodying the principles of unity, casaulity and
progression. Aristotle emphasizes the importance of a
well-constructed plot, which he dignifies as the
arrangement of incidents that evoke emotional
catharsis in the audienc. Drawing from his observation
of Greek tragedies , Aristotle highlights the essential
elements of Plots including exposition, rising
action,climax , falling action and resolution. He
underscores the significance of causality, wherein
each event in the plot is logically connected, leading to
inevitable consequences. Additionally, Aristotle
stresses the unity of Plot, advocating for coherence and
conciseness in storytelling to maintain the audience’s
attention and engagement. Overall, Aristotle’s analysis
of Plot in “Poetics” provides a comprehensive frame
work for understanding the art of narrative construction
and its profound impact on theoretical experiences.
Defining a Plot:
“ The plan, design, scheme or
pattern of events in a play, poem or work of fiction and,
further, the organization of incidents and character in
such a way as to induce curiosity and suspense in the
spectator and reader.
In space time continuum of Plot the continual
questions operates in three tenses
❖Why did it happen?
❖Why is this happening?
❖What is going to happen next -and why? ( To
which may be added is anything going to happen?).
In Poetics, Aristotle includes plot as one of the six
elements in tragedy. For Aristotle it is the ‘ First
Principle’ and ‘ the soul of the tragedy’. He calls Plot ‘
the imitation of the action’ , as well as the
arrangements of the incidents. He required a Plot to be
‘ whole’ ( that is beginning, middle and end) and it
should have unity, namely ‘ imitate one action and
that a whole the structural union of the parts being
such that, if any of them is displaced or removed,
the while will be disjointed and disturbed.

Unity and Structure:

Aristotle emphasizes the
importance of unity and structure in plot construction.
He advocates for a well organized narrative that follows
a clear beginning, middle and end. The Plot should
have a unified structure, with each event logically
connected to the other event or the next, leading
inexorably toward the resolution of the central
conflict or theme.

Concept of Unities :
Within the concept of unity
of Plot, Aristotle discusses three unities : unity of
action, unity of time and unity of place.
Unity of Action: It requires that the plot focus on a
single central conflict without unnecessary subplots.
Unity of time: It suggests that the events of the play
should occur within a compressed timeframe, typically
no more than 24 hours
Unity of Place: It suggests that the action should
unfold in a single location.
Three unities serve to intensify the dramatic
tension and focus the audience’s attention on the
central themes and the characters of the play.

Probability and Necessity:

“ Probability”
refers to events that could realistically happen within
the context of the story .
“Necessity” implies that these events must logically
follow from the preceding actions
Additionally, events should unfold in
a logical and believable manner adhering to the
principles of human nature and causality, necessary for
the development of the narrative, contributing to the
overall coherence and significance of the Plot.

Structure of Plot :
Aristotle introduces ‘ three-
act structure comprising a middle , a beginning
and ab end if the action
Beginning(Protasis): The beginning of the Plot
establishes the ground-work for the narrative
introducing the main characters, setting and initial
conflicts. It sets the stage for the unfolding events
Middle(Epitasis): The Middle of the Plot
comprises the bulk of the action where where
complications arise and obstacles confront the
protagonist. Tension builds as the conflict
intensifies, leading towards the climax.
End(Catastrophe): The End of the Plot brings
about the resolution of the central conflict. It may
involve a moment of recognition (anagnorisis) or
reversal of fortune (peripeteia), for the
protagonist. The resolution provides closure and
satisfaction for the audience.
Reversal and Recognition:
Reversal or
Peripeteia involves a sudden change in the fortunes of
the protagonist often from good to bas or vice versa. It
serves to a highten dramatic tension and propel the
plot towards it’s resolution.
Recognition or Anagnorisis involves a moment of
realization or discovery typically regarding the
protagonist’s true identity or the nature of their
situation.
It is the contribution to the growth and development of
the protagonist leading to the catharsis

Character and Thought:

In Aristotle’s “ Poetics”
the concept of “ dianoia” ( sometimes translated as
‘thought’ or ‘ intellect’) is crucial for the indepth
understanding of the characters. It is through dianoia
that characters express their thought, engage in
philosophical disscussion, and make decision that
drive the plot forward.

Length and Complexity:

According to
Aristotle’s Poetics , the length and Complexity of plot
should be carefully structured to achieve the desired
effect. Unity, Coherence and Completeness are viral
in crafting of a well- constructed plot .
Plot should be neither too long or nor too short but
should strike a balance between being concise and
comprehensive. Aristotle advocates for a certain
degree of complexity that allows for the development
and depth without overwhelming the audience.

Plot as a Living Organism:

Aristotle introduces
the concept of “ an organic plot” which emphasizes the
unity, coherence and the natural development of the
narrative. Organic plot resembles the growth of a living
organism, with each element of the Plot contributing to
it’s overall unity and harmony like the branches of a
tree growing from a single trunk; the events of an
organic plot stem from a central conflict or theme,
branching outwards to create a fully realized narrative.

Kinds of Plot:
“Haplous Mythos” the term refers
to the simple plot. A simple plot follows a straight-
forward and linear progression with a single central
conflict . Simple plots are characterized by their clarity,
coherence, lack of intricate twists or complications.
Despite their simplicity they can still effectively convey
moral lessons or explore universal themes.
“Placton Mythos” the term refers to
the complex plot characterized by its intricacy, multiple
plotlines and unexpected twists. It often involves
interconnected subplots, secondary conflicts and
layers of thematic depth .Complex Plots challenge the
audience’s expectation and require active engagement
to understand the various layers of meanings. Complex
Plots are more intellectually stimulating and
emotionally satisfying then Simple Plots.
While discussing plot Aristotle also disscussd Tragic
Plot that typically revolves around the characters of
high status whi experience a downfall due to tragic flaw
or fate ( from tha state of prosperity to one of adversity).
Comic Plot that typically revolves around the
misunderstandings, mistaken identities and
reconciliations leading to a sense of harmony and
resolution.
Dramatic Plot focus on the interactions and conflicts
between characters often within a specific setting and
time frame.
While Aristotle’s classifications of Plots in “ Poetics”
does not align directly with specific genres as we
understand them today, his principles can still be
applied to various forms of narratives to analyze their
structure, coherence and effectiveness in conveying
meaning and eliciting emotional responses from the
audience.

Difference between Simple and

Complex Plot :

In Simple plot, the change of fortune In Complex Plots, there is one or the
occurs without Peripeteia and other or both.
anagnorisis

Conclusion:
Aristotle’s ‘ Poetics’ provides an
invaluable insights into the nature and significance of
Plot in literature and drama, through his meticulous
analysis, Aristotle illuminates the essential elements of
plot structure,emphasizing the importance of unity,
coherence and progression in crafting a compelling
narrative . By exploring the complexities of the Plot ,
Aristotle invites readers to appreciate the artistry and
craftsmanship behind storytelling, while also
recognizing its profound impact on the emotional and
intellectual engagement. Ultimately, Aristotle’s
examination of plot in Poetics continues to serve as
timeless guide for writers, scholars and enthusiasts
alike, inspiring a deeper understanding and
appreciation of the power of narrative in shaping or
understanding of the human experience.