Character Quote by Aristotle
““The plot, then, is the first principle, and, as it were, the soul of a tragedy; Character holds the second place.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Poetics by Aristotle, 335 BC
The essential structure of a tragedy is its plot, which drives the emotional impact, while character supports it.
In simple terms: Plot is the core; character is secondary.
Key Takeaway
Focus on strong narrative foundations.
Themes
drama
structure
literature
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- playwriting
- screenwriting
- theatre production
- literary analysis
Key Concepts
Aristotelian theory
narrative hierarchy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does plot shape audience emotion?
- Can character ever outweigh plot?
A Different Perspective
A great plot cannot compensate for weak characters.
