Question

Who banished poets from his ideal commonwealth?

• A. John Milton
• B. Plato
• C. John Dryden
• D. Aristotle

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Plato

Plato's Stance on Poets in His Ideal Commonwealth

• Philosopher King: Plato, a renowned Greek philosopher, outlined his vision of an ideal state in his seminal work, The Republic. In this ideal commonwealth, he proposed that governance should be led by philosopher-kings, individuals possessing wisdom and a deep understanding of justice and truth.
• Critique of Poetry: Plato expressed significant skepticism towards poets and their role in society. He believed that poetry, particularly the epic and dramatic forms popular in his time, was imitative and appealed to the emotional rather than the rational part of the soul.
• Art as Mimesis: According to Plato's theory of Forms, the physical world is an imperfect copy of the eternal Forms. He viewed art, including poetry, as a copy of a copy (mimesis), making it twice removed from reality and truth.
• Moral and Intellectual Dangers: Plato argued that poets often presented flawed or immoral characters and behaviors, which could corrupt the citizens, especially the young, by promoting undesirable virtues and vices. He also felt that poetry could stir up emotions and passions, undermining the disciplined and rational governance he envisioned.
• Censorship and Banishment: Consequently, in his ideal republic, Plato advocated for strict censorship of poetry. He suggested that poets should be banished or, at the very least, their works carefully vetted and censored to ensure they aligned with the state's moral and educational objectives. Only hymns to the gods and the praises of famous men would be permitted.
• Influence on Western Thought: Plato's critique of poetry and art has had a profound and lasting impact on Western literary criticism and philosophy, sparking debates about the purpose, function, and ethical implications of artistic creation that continue to this day.