Mimesis
/mɪˈmiː.sɪs/noun
The imitation of the real world in art and literature.
Did you know?In ancient Greek thought, mimesis was not just imitation; it was believed to possess the ability to invoke and channel deeper truths of existence.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
μίμησις
“An act of imitation or representation.”
1st Century
Latin
mimesis
“Adoption of the Greek term, emphasizing artistic imitation.”
14th Century
Middle English
mimesis
“Introduced into English through scholarly texts, retaining the concept of artistic representation.”
Modern English
English
mimesis
“Recognized in literary and philosophical contexts as the principle of representation in art.”