An analysis of the ideas expressed by the ancient Greeks on literature

Abstract

The paper traces the ideas expressed by the early poets of ancient Greece on the value of literature, the poets and the role they played in the social, political field. The study proves that from a very early period in time creative writings of the poets were different from the ordinary writing for other practical purposes. Hence the various styles adopted the manner in which they treat words and even expression has a special twist that reaches beyond simple communication. When the introduction of literary criticism was made by the comic poet, again as a consequence of the characteristics of his comedies one observes how the actual critical criteria is for evaluation is highlighted. The paper also examines how the criteria in actual evaluation changed with the development of society. Starting with the influence of literature on society as a whole it culminates with theories presented by Aristotle where the individual feelings become the center point, though the society is a collection of individuals. This is the collective impact that literature has the ability to impose.