Aristotle further claims that, having expressed some of their emotions, the audience has a sense of relief that helps them handle daily living in calmer fashion. This is directly antithetical to Plato’s claim that drama and poetry could produce ill effects on viewers and readers, leading them to act more extremely. Aristotle instead contends that drama leads to a more rational mind since the extremes of emotion are tapped and felt in a safe setting. Many people have had the experience of having a good weep during a film or, more often, a good laugh. Individuals may look to plays, films and books as a means of safe expression of deep emotion.

What is Catharsis? (with picture) Saturday, December 28, 2013 @ 9:40pm