Fear and Pity? (Arist. Poet. 6, 1449b27–28)
Fear and Pity? (Arist. Poet. 6, 1449b27–28)

Summary/Abstract: Presenting several examples of objective use of the words φόβος and ἔλεος in Greek literature, the author offers an accordingly altered grammatical reading of the catharsis-clause in the Aristotle’s definition of tragedy (Poetics 6, 1449b27–28). Unlike most interpretations, the conceptual pair is seen to represent corresponding types of action, particular acting scenes evoking emotions of fear and pity, respectively—and not the emotions themselves (evoked in the minds of the spectators).

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