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Plato's objection to the older art--that it is the…

“Plato's objection to the older art--that it is the imitation of a phantom and hence belongs to a sphere even lower than the empirical world--could certainly not be directed against the new art; and so we find Plato endeavoring to transcend reality and to represent the idea which underlies this…” quote by Friedrich Nietzsche
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““Plato's objection to the older art--that it is the imitation of a phantom and hence belongs to a sphere even lower than the empirical world--could certainly not be directed against the new art; and so we find Plato endeavoring to transcend reality and to represent the idea which underlies this pseudo-reality.””

Friedrich Nietzsche

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Nietzsche argues that Plato’s critique of art as mere imitation cannot be applied to modern art, which seeks to reveal deeper ideas beyond mere illusion.

In simple terms: Plato’s old art critique doesn’t fit new art that aims to show deeper truths.

Key Takeaway

Recognize that art can transcend mere imitation.

Themes

philosophy art metaphysics truth creativity

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

analytical critical

When to use this quote

  • visual arts
  • literature
  • film
  • performance
  • education

Key Concepts

Platonic idealism aesthetic theory epistemology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can art ever fully capture the underlying idea?
  • How does modern art differ from Plato’s view?
A Different Perspective

New art still risks being misunderstood as mere illusion.

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