서양 고대 그리스의 모방론에서 본 춤 예술

Abstract

This study examines the meaning of dance and art from the viewpoint of mimetic theory of art. With related publications and reference, Plato(BC 428-348) and Aristotle(BC 384-321) are studied around the mimetic theory. The concept of mimesis is defined and then Plato's and Aristotle's views are compared. Major findings of this study are as follows: Mimesis is generally an act that makes an imitation of a thing from the original state of it. In view of the mimetic theory, therefore, art is essentially an imitation of nature. Plato explains the mimesis of "Idea" in line with metaphysics while denies physical things. He claims that every phenomenon in the world is only an imitation of its nature and art is an imitation of the imitation and thus barely real at all. Aristotle agrees that art is essentially an mimesis. But he goes over Plato's concept. To him, mimesis is in part the act of intellect and imaginative use of nature, and thus art is natural and beneficial. Plato is not highly appraised among dancers and artists today since he underestimates dance and art while Aristotle estimates that art imitates not only the outside of event but intended behavior and even the unseen "inner life" of persons. Aristotle confirms artistic mimesis that dancers and artists represent their internal attributes. In sum, dancers and artists are requested to imitate good works, good paintings and good performances. Their imitation, more importantly, requires to include internal, psychological and beautiful acts of themselves. These are the true meaning of mimesis that not only Aristotle implies but also real art represents.