ARISTOTLE

Translator: Paul Gratsiatos

Translator: Frederic G. Kenyon

Aristotle was the first theorist of theatre so his "Poetics" is the origin and basis of all subsequent theatre criticism.Aristotles "Poetics", though short, has been widely influential outside philosophical circles. Yet it is doubtful that it can be fully appreciated outside Aristotles philosophical system as a whole.Central to all Aristotles philosophy is the claim that nothing can be understood apart from its end or purpose (telos). Not surprisingly, the "Poetics" seeks to discover the end or purpose of all the poetic arts, and especially of tragic drama. Understood generally, the goal of poetry is to provide pleasure of a particular kind. All people by nature enjoy a good imitation (that is, a picture or drama) because they enjoy learning, and imitations help them to learn.

Part 1: Logic (Organon)Categories, translated by E. M. EdghillOn Interpretation, translated by E. M. EdghillPrior Analytics (2 Books), translated by A. J. JenkinsonPosterior Analytics (2 Books), translated by G. R. G. MureTopics (8 Books), translated by W. A. Pickard-CambridgeSophistical Refutations, translated by W. A. Pickard-CambridgePart 2: Universal PhysicsPhysics (8 Books), translated by R. P. Hardie and R. K. GayeOn the Heavens (4 Books), translated by J. L. StocksOn Gerneration and Corruption (2 Books), translated by H. H. JoachimMeteorology (4 Books), translated by E. W. WebsterPart 3: Human PhysicsOn the Soul (3 Books), translated by J. A. SmithOn Sense and the Sensible, translated by J. I. BeareOn Memory and Reminiscence, translated by J. I. BeareOn Sleep and Sleeplessness, translated by J. I. BeareOn Dreams, translated by J. I. BeareOn Prophesying by Dreams, translated by J. I. BeareOn Longevity and Shortness of Life, translated by G. R. T. RossOn Youth, Old Age, Life and Death, and Respiration, translated by G. R. T. RossPart 4: Animal PhysicsThe History of Animals (9 Books), translated by DArcy Wentworth ThompsonOn the Parts of Animals (4 Books), translated by William OgleOn the Motion of Animals, translated by A. S. L. FarquharsonOn the Gait of Animals, translated by A. S. L. FarquharsonOn the Generation of Animals (5 Books), translated by Arthur PlattPart 5: Metaphysics(15 Books), translated by W. D. RossPart 6: Ethics and PoliticsNicomachean Ethics (10 Books), translated by W. D. RossPolitics (8 Books), translated by Benjamin JowettThe Athenian Constitution, translated by Sir Frederic G. KenyonPart 7: Aesthetic WritingsRhetoric (3 Books), translated by W. Rhys RobertsPoetics, translated by S. H. Butcher

Aristotles "The Poetics" stands as a foundational text in the study of literary theory and dramatic criticism. Through a meticulous analysis of tragedy, epic poetry, and the principles underlying successful storytelling, Aristotle elucidates concepts such as catharsis, mimesis, and the unities of time, place, and action. His systematic approach not only highlights the mechanics of these literary forms but also engages with broader philosophical inquiries, positioning literature as a mirror to human experience. Written in a clear and methodical style, the work reflects the intellectual milieu of ancient Greece, emphasizing empirical observation and rational thought, marking it as a precursor to both aesthetic and narrative theory in Western literature. Aristotle (384-322 BCE), a towering figure in Western philosophy, made significant contributions across disciplines including ethics, politics, metaphysics, and, of course, literary criticism. His engagement with the works of his predecessors, especially that of Plato, and his interactions with the performing arts in Athens, informed his insights into the nature of art and its impact on society. This background in empirical observation and discourse shaped Aristotles belief in art as an essential reflection of human nature, compelling him to analyze its form and structure systematically in "The Poetics." I highly recommend "The Poetics" to anyone interested in a deeper understanding of literature, drama, and the intricate relationship between narrative and truth. AristotleAos arguments remain relevant, challenging readers to consider not only the mechanics of storytelling but also its moral and philosophical implications. This text is essential for aspiring writers, scholars, and anyone fascinated by the enduring power of the written word.

Translator: William Ellis

Part 1: Logic (Organon)Categories, translated by E. M. EdghillOn Interpretation, translated by E. M. EdghillPrior Analytics (2 Books), translated by A. J. JenkinsonPosterior Analytics (2 Books), translated by G. R. G. MureTopics (8 Books), translated by W. A. Pickard-CambridgeSophistical Refutations, translated by W. A. Pickard-CambridgePart 2: Universal PhysicsPhysics (8 Books), translated by R. P. Hardie and R. K. GayeOn the Heavens (4 Books), translated by J. L. StocksOn Gerneration and Corruption (2 Books), translated by H. H. JoachimMeteorology (4 Books), translated by E. W. WebsterPart 3: Human PhysicsOn the Soul (3 Books), translated by J. A. SmithOn Sense and the Sensible, translated by J. I. BeareOn Memory and Reminiscence, translated by J. I. BeareOn Sleep and Sleeplessness, translated by J. I. BeareOn Dreams, translated by J. I. BeareOn Prophesying by Dreams, translated by J. I. BeareOn Longevity and Shortness of Life, translated by G. R. T. RossOn Youth, Old Age, Life and Death, and Respiration, translated by G. R. T. RossPart 4: Animal PhysicsThe History of Animals (9 Books), translated by DArcy Wentworth ThompsonOn the Parts of Animals (4 Books), translated by William OgleOn the Motion of Animals, translated by A. S. L. FarquharsonOn the Gait of Animals, translated by A. S. L. FarquharsonOn the Generation of Animals (5 Books), translated by Arthur PlattPart 5: Metaphysics(15 Books), translated by W. D. RossPart 6: Ethics and PoliticsNicomachean Ethics (10 Books), translated by W. D. RossPolitics (8 Books), translated by Benjamin JowettThe Athenian Constitution, translated by Sir Frederic G. KenyonPart 7: Aesthetic WritingsRhetoric (3 Books), translated by W. Rhys RobertsPoetics, translated by S. H. Butcher

Part 1: Logic (Organon)Categories, translated by E. M. EdghillOn Interpretation, translated by E. M. EdghillPrior Analytics (2 Books), translated by A. J. JenkinsonPosterior Analytics (2 Books), translated by G. R. G. MureTopics (8 Books), translated by W. A. Pickard-CambridgeSophistical Refutations, translated by W. A. Pickard-CambridgePart 2: Universal PhysicsPhysics (8 Books), translated by R. P. Hardie and R. K. GayeOn the Heavens (4 Books), translated by J. L. StocksOn Gerneration and Corruption (2 Books), translated by H. H. JoachimMeteorology (4 Books), translated by E. W. WebsterPart 3: Human PhysicsOn the Soul (3 Books), translated by J. A. SmithOn Sense and the Sensible, translated by J. I. BeareOn Memory and Reminiscence, translated by J. I. BeareOn Sleep and Sleeplessness, translated by J. I. BeareOn Dreams, translated by J. I. BeareOn Prophesying by Dreams, translated by J. I. BeareOn Longevity and Shortness of Life, translated by G. R. T. RossOn Youth, Old Age, Life and Death, and Respiration, translated by G. R. T. RossPart 4: Animal PhysicsThe History of Animals (9 Books), translated by DArcy Wentworth ThompsonOn the Parts of Animals (4 Books), translated by William OgleOn the Motion of Animals, translated by A. S. L. FarquharsonOn the Gait of Animals, translated by A. S. L. FarquharsonOn the Generation of Animals (5 Books), translated by Arthur PlattPart 5: Metaphysics(15 Books), translated by W. D. RossPart 6: Ethics and PoliticsNicomachean Ethics (10 Books), translated by W. D. RossPolitics (8 Books), translated by Benjamin JowettThe Athenian Constitution, translated by Sir Frederic G. KenyonPart 7: Aesthetic WritingsRhetoric (3 Books), translated by W. Rhys RobertsPoetics, translated by S. H. Butcher

The Constitution of the Athenians, also called The Athenian Constitution is a work by Aristotle or one of his students. The work describes the constitution of Athens. It is preserved on a papyrus roll from Hermopolis, published in 1891 and now in the British Library. A small part of the work also survives on two leaves of a papyrus codex, discovered in the Fayum in 1879 and now in the papyrus collection of the Agyptisches Museum in Berlin.Aristotle (384322 BC) was a Greek philosopher and polymath during the Classical period in Ancient Greece. Taught by Plato, he was the founder of the Peripatetic school of philosophy within the Lyceum and the wider Aristotelian tradition. His writings cover many subjects including physics, biology, zoology, metaphysics, logic, ethics, aesthetics, poetry, theatre, music, rhetoric, psychology, linguistics, economics, politics, meteorology, geology, and government. Aristotle provided a complex synthesis of the various philosophies existing prior to him. It was above all from his teachings that the West inherited its intellectual lexicon, as well as problems and methods of inquiry. As a result, his philosophy has exerted a unique influence on almost every form of knowledge in the West and it continues to be a subject of contemporary philosophical discussion.Translated by Sir Frederic G. Kenyon

Aristotles "Posterior Analytics" is a cornerstone of epistemology and scientific methodology, delving into the nature of knowledge and the principles of demonstration. Through a rigorous exploration of syllogistic reasoning, Aristotle outlines the foundational elements of scientific knowledge, distinguishing between what is known and how it is known. His analytical style reflects the systematic clarity typical of his works, embodying the transition from pre-Socratic inquiry to a more formalized study of logic and science. Set against the backdrop of the philosophical inquiries of Classical Greece, this text not only elucidates the mechanisms of deducing knowledge but also establishes a dialectic framework for understanding empirical evidence and causation. Aristotle, born in 384 BCE, was a polymath whose extensive inquiries spanned numerous subjects, including ethics, politics, and biology. The intellectual milieu of his time, marked by a burgeoning quest for rational explanation, undoubtedly influenced his writing of "Posterior Analytics." His mentorship under Plato tempered by his later critiques of Platonic ideals informs his inquiries into the nature of demonstrable knowledge. Coupled with his empirical observations, these experiences coalesce into a profound analysis of how knowledge can be attained and validated. For scholars and students both familiar and unfamiliar with Aristotelian thought, "Posterior Analytics" stands as an essential text for understanding the development of scientific reasoning. It invites readers into a dialogue about the nature of knowledge, prompting them to consider not just the conclusions we reach, but the methodologies used to arrive at those conclusions. Engaging with this work will enhance ones appreciation for the philosophical foundations that underpin science and logic today.

The Poetics of Aristotle is the earliest surviving work of dramatic theory and first extant philosophical treatise to focus on literary theory. In it, Aristotle offers an account of what he calls "poetry". In this reflections Aristotle includes verse drama comedy, tragedy, and the satyr play as well as lyric poetry and epic poetry. The similarities and differences are being described in this work.

Translator: Kyriakos Zambas

Selected and with an introduction by Hugh Griffith.

Biology was a natural pursuit for Aristotle, given his familys medical background. Along with his achievements in logic, his work in biology constitutes his greatest and longest-lasting success. He identified approximately 495 different species of animals, some of which were alluded to briefly and others that were studied in considerable depth. A significant part of his achievement was simply the sheer amount of data that he collected, but he is also praised for the skill and care with which he organised the data, along with the insights he offered.His central work in biological studies was titled "The History of Animals". Aristotle draws the most important distinctions between animals with and without blood and between viviparous (reproducing offspring within the females body, as generally the case with mammals) and oviparous (reproducing through the hatching of eggs) animals. He paid considerable attention to the questions of reproduction and heredity, determining what factors contribute in what ways. Aristotles teleology played a particularly important role in his biological studies. He believed that no organ was given to an animal without a purpose. Thus he was careful to distinguish between final and variable characteristics. Final characteristics were those essential to an animal species, while variable characteristics consisted of qualities that develop rather than being naturally endowed.

Aristotles Poetics stands as one of the earliest and most influential works of literary theory in Western literature. In this treatise, Aristotle explores the nature of tragedy and poetry, discussing elements such as plot, character, and spectacle. He delves into the importance of catharsis, the emotional effect on the audience, and the role of imitation in art. Written in a scholarly and logical style, Poetics offers a systematic analysis of the principles underlying dramatic works, providing valuable insights into the art of storytelling. Aristotles work is a cornerstone of literary criticism, shaping the way we understand and appreciate literature. His ideas have stood the test of time, influencing generations of writers and scholars. Poetics is essential reading for anyone interested in the foundations of Western literature and drama, offering profound reflections on the nature of art and the human experience.

This new collection of Aristotle''s political writings provides the student with all the necessary materials for a full understanding of his work as a political scientist. In addition to a revised and extended introduction, this expanded Cambridge Texts edition contains an extensive guide to further reading and an index of names with biographical notes. Presentation of The Politics and The Constitution of Athens in a single volume will make this the most attractive and convenient student edition of these seminal works currently available.

In Organon, Aristotle lays the foundational framework of logic and scientific reasoning, offering a comprehensive examination of syllogism, deduction, and classification of knowledge. This seminal work consists of six textsCategories, On Interpretation, Prior Analytics, Posterior Analytics, Topics, and On Sophistical Refutationswhich collectively explore the principles of valid reasoning and argumentation. Written in clear, incisive prose, Aristotles literary style combines analytical rigor with philosophical inquiry, situating the text within the broader context of Ancient Greek philosophy and the intellectual debates of his time. Aristotle (384Ai322 BCE), a towering figure in Western philosophy, served as a student of Plato and tutor to Alexander the Great, experiences that profoundly influenced his thinking. His diverse scholarly pursuits encompassed biology, ethics, metaphysics, and politics. It is through his analytical lens that Aristotle sought to dissect the mechanics of thought and understanding, making Organon a testament to his quest for knowledge and clarity in human logic. Organon is indispensable for anyone invested in philosophy, logic, or the historical development of scientific thought. With its systematic approach to reasoning, the text invites readers to engage with the principles that underpin rational discourse, offering invaluable insights that remain relevant in contemporary debates.In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:- A succinct Introduction situates the works timeless appeal and themes.- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the eras events and influences that shaped the writing.- An Author Biography reveals milestones in the authors life, illuminating the personal insights behind the text.- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the works messages, connecting them to modern life.- Handpicked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

In "On the Heavens," Aristotle embarks on an astute philosophical inquiry into the nature of the cosmos, providing a foundational text for the fields of astronomy and metaphysics. Written in a clear yet complex prose style, Aristotle presents a systematic examination of celestial phenomena, discussing the structure of the universe, the movements of celestial bodies, and the nature of space and time. Engaging with both empirical observation and established theories of his time, Aristotle challenges the prevailing notions of his predecessors, funneling his observations into a comprehensive argument for the eternal nature of the heavens, which profoundly influenced Western thought well into the scientific revolution. Aristotle (384-322 BCE), an Athenian polymath and student of Plato, became the forebear of numerous disciplines including philosophy, biology, and physics. His extensive exposure to various schools of thought and his commitment to empirical observation enabled him to blend poetic wonder with rigorous exploration in "On the Heavens." The work also reflects his philosophical pursuits, particularly his desire to understand the causes behind the phenomena that govern both earthly and celestial realms. "On the Heavens" is essential reading for anyone interested in the origins of scientific thought and the foundational questions that continue to resonate in modern discourse. It invites readers to reflect on the cosmos not merely as a backdrop for human activity but as an active participant in the philosophical explorations that define our existence.In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:- A succinct Introduction situates the works timeless appeal and themes.- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the eras events and influences that shaped the writing.- An Author Biography reveals milestones in the authors life, illuminating the personal insights behind the text.- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the works messages, connecting them to modern life.- Handpicked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

In "On the Generation of Animals," Aristotle delivers a profound exploration of reproductive processes and the development of life forms, intertwining empirical observation with philosophical inquiry. Employing a systematic and analytical literary style, Aristotle meticulously categorizes various modes of generation, from oviparity to viviparity, and delves into the roles of form and matter in the essence of living beings. This work not only contributes to the natural sciences but also reflects the Aristotelian commitment to categorization and causation, emblematic of his broader philosophical paradigm, bridging metaphysics and biological observation in a way that would influence generations of thinkers. Aristotle, a towering figure of ancient Greek philosophy, was shaped by his unique experiences as a student of Plato and later as a teacher at the Lyceum. His extensive studies of nature, ethics, and metaphysics led him to investigate the biological underpinnings of life. "On the Generation of Animals" stands as a testament to his dedication to observing the natural world with rigor, driven by an insatiable curiosity that highlighted the interplay of biology and philosophy throughout his life. This foundational text is essential for modern readers who seek to understand the origins of biological thought and the evolution of scientific inquiry. It intricately reveals Aristotles innovative approach, inviting readers to appreciate the depth of his observations and their lasting impact on both philosophy and biology, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the intersections of life, science, and thought.In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:- A succinct Introduction situates the works timeless appeal and themes.- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the eras events and influences that shaped the writing.- An Author Biography reveals milestones in the authors life, illuminating the personal insights behind the text.- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the works messages, connecting them to modern life.- Handpicked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.