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Mimesis Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mimesis

[mษชหˆmiหsษชs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

art

The imitation or representation of aspects of the sensible world, especially human actions, in literature and art.

Synonyms

depiction, imitation, representation.

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Word Description / Examples
mimesis

Best used in academic or philosophical discussions to describe a way of imitating real life in art and literature.

  • The novel is a striking example of mimesis, portraying the struggles of everyday people.
imitation

Commonly used in everyday language to describe something that is made to look like or act like something else, sometimes with a negative connotation if it implies a lack of originality.

  • The imitation leather on this bag looks almost like the real thing.
  • His singing was an imitation of the original artist, lacking any personal style.
representation

Used broadly to describe the act of depicting or standing for something, often in contexts such as art, politics, or data.

  • The artist's work is a representation of the cultural changes occurring in the city.
depiction

Often used in both general and artistic contexts to describe the action or result of representing images or scenes.

  • The movie's depiction of the historical event was highly praised for its accuracy.

Examples of usage

  • Mimesis was a key concept in ancient Greek art and literature.
  • His novel employed mimesis to depict the struggles of everyday life.
Context #2 | Noun

philosophy

The imitation of the natural processes or systems.

Synonyms

imitation, replication, simulation.

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Word Description / Examples
mimesis

This term is often used in literature or art to describe the mimicry of reality in creative works. It has a more sophisticated and academic connotation.

  • The painting was a striking example of mimesis, capturing the essence of a bustling marketplace.
  • In literature, mimesis is a tool used to reflect the complexities of human behavior.
imitation

Best used in everyday language to describe copying or following something as a model. It can imply both positive and negative connotations, depending on the context.

  • Children often learn by imitation, mimicking the actions of adults.
  • Her imitation of the singer was so good that many people thought it was the real person.
simulation

Often used in the context of technology, virtual environments, or situations where a model is created to study or experience something without the real-world consequences.

  • The flight simulation gave the pilot a chance to practice emergency procedures safely.
  • Scientists used computer simulations to predict the outcome of the climate model.
replication

Typically used in scientific or technical contexts to describe the exact duplication of an experiment, procedure, or design.

  • The researcher achieved consistent results upon replication of the experiment.
  • The replication of ancient artifacts helps us understand historical craftsmanship.

Examples of usage

  • The philosopher discussed the concept of mimesis in relation to nature.
  • This theory of mimesis explores how art imitates the natural world.
Context #3 | Noun

psychology

The unconscious imitation of gestures and expressions of others.

Synonyms

copying, emulation, imitation.

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Word Description / Examples
mimesis

Used in artistic or literary contexts to describe the representation or imitation of the real world, especially in art and literature.

  • The novel is a perfect example of mimesis, capturing the essence of human nature.
  • Aristotle's concept of mimesis explains how art reflects reality.
imitation

Used to describe the act of mimicking or duplicating something. Can be neutral or have a negative connotation if it implies artificiality or lack of originality.

  • Children learn many social behaviors through imitation of adults.
  • The sculpture was merely an imitation of the original masterpiece.
copying

Commonly used in everyday language to describe the act of making a similar or identical version of something. Can be neutral or have a negative connotation if it implies lack of originality.

  • She spent the whole afternoon copying her notes.
  • The artist was accused of copying another's work.
emulation

Often used in a positive context to describe the effort to match or surpass a person or achievement, typically through imitation driven by admiration.

  • He practiced very hard in emulation of his older brother's success.
  • His emulation of her leadership style was a testament to her influence.

Examples of usage

  • His mimesis of his favorite actor's mannerisms was uncanny.
  • The child's mimesis of her mother's behavior was observed by psychologists.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • Mimesis plays a crucial role in Plato's theory of forms, where he viewed art as an imitation of the ideal forms of objects.
  • Aristotle, however, believed that imitation in art was a natural human behavior, essential for learning and expression.
  • In literary theory, the effectiveness of storytelling often relies on the mimicry of real-life emotions and situations.

Literature

  • Many classic works of literature, such as Shakespeareโ€™s plays, utilize mimesis to reflect society and human nature.
  • In postmodern literature, this idea is explored to challenge the boundaries between reality and fiction.
  • The concept influences various genres, from realism, which seeks to depict life as it is, to magical realism, where reality blends with magical elements.

Art

  • Throughout art history, mimesis has been a foundational concept, especially in genres like realism and naturalism.
  • Artists such as Caravaggio and Vermeer are noted for their ability to mimic light and shadow to create lifelike representations.
  • In contemporary art, mimesis can be subverted, questioning the relationships between art and reality.

Psychology

  • Imitative behavior is a key aspect of human development; children learn by mimicking adults around them.
  • Studies in social psychology reveal that people often unconsciously imitate the actions and emotions of those they interact with.
  • Understanding mimesis can enhance our insights into empathy, as it reflects how we connect with othersโ€™ experiences.

Origin of 'mimesis'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'mimesis' comes from the ancient Greek word 'mฤซmฤ“sis', meaning 'imitation' or 'representation'.
  • In Greek, the root 'mฤซmฤ“' means 'to imitate', which ties back to the term's focus on copying and replicating.
  • The concept has roots in Aristotleโ€™s writings, where he discusses how art imitates life.

The term 'mimesis' originated in ancient Greek philosophy, particularly in the work of Plato and Aristotle. It has been a fundamental concept in aesthetics, literature, and art for centuries, exploring the relationship between representation and reality. The idea of mimesis has evolved over time, influencing various fields such as psychology, sociology, and cultural studies.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,075, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.