Untitled Flashcards Set

Philosophy 214: Introduction to the Philosophy of Art
Flashcards Study Guide

Plato (427 - 347 BC)

Q: How might we translate the Greek word techne to reflect its full meaning?
A: Techne means "craft" or "practical knowledge," emphasizing skill and technique. It differs from poiesis (creation) and physis (nature).

Q: What are the two types of education in Republic, Book II?
A: (1) Musical and poetic education (for the soul), (2) Physical training (for the body).

Q: Why is imitative poetry dangerous according to Socrates?
A: (1) It portrays gods and heroes immorally, (2) Appeals to emotions over reason, (3) Misleads about reality.

Q: What is the "true lie" according to Socrates?
A: A fundamental falsehood about reality and the soul, leading to ignorance.

Q: What kind of characters should be imitated?
A: Just and virtuous characters; corrupt ones should be avoided.

Q: What does Socrates say about the pantomimic poet?
A: Poets manipulate emotions, distracting from reason.

Q: What is required to become truly musical?
A: Appreciation for order, rhythm, and harmony.

Q: Why is poetry harmful according to Republic, Book X?
A: It deceives by imitating appearances rather than truth.

Q: What does Socrates say painters and poets imitate?
A: Shadows of reality, not truth itself.

Aristotle (384 - 322 BC)

Q: What are the three kinds of being in Metaphysics XII?
A: (1) Matter (hylē), (2) Form (eidos), (3) Composite (actual being).

Q: What is potency and act in Metaphysics IX?
A: Potency is the ability to act or be acted upon; arts fall under active potency.

Q: What is the difference between poiesis and praxis?
A: Poiesis is production (external creation), praxis is ethical action.

Q: What are Aristotle’s four causes?
A: (1) Material (what it’s made of), (2) Formal (its design), (3) Efficient (how it’s made), (4) Final (its purpose).

Q: What is virtue in art?
A: Mastery and skillful balance, avoiding extremes.

Q: What are the modes of artistic imitation?
A: (1) Epic (narrative), (2) Tragic (dramatic action), (3) Comic (satirical).

Q: What are the six elements of tragedy?
A: Plot, Character, Thought, Diction, Melody, Spectacle.

Q: Why is plot the most important element of tragedy?
A: It determines the unity of the story.

Q: What is catharsis?
A: Emotional purification achieved through tragedy.

Q: Why should music be included in education?
A: It cultivates character and discipline.