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At first, Aristotle defined tragedy in Poetics around 330 BC. All other decisions related to tragedy followed by Aristotelian concept. Aristotle says, "Tragedy, then, is an imitation of a noble and complete action, having the proper magnitude; it employs language that has been artistically enhanced …; it is presented in dramatic, not narrative form, and achieves, through the representation of pitiable and fearful incidents, the catharsis of such incidents.” Several of these terms require explanation. "Imitation" (mimesis) does not refer wholly to acting out something on stage. Aristotle recognizes many forms of imitation including epic poetry (Homer), painting, song, and dance. “Noble, does not mean that the characters are necessarily of high moral standing or that they must always be kings, heroes, or gods: the title character of Euripides' Medea is a wicked sorceress who kills her own children. According to Hardison, the term could be translated as larger than life, majestic, or serious”. [4]

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