ΜΙΜΗΛΟΣ

Definition

Per the Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon, `mimēlos` (μιμηλός) denotes "imitative, apt to imitate, capable of imitating." This adjective, though less frequent than the verb `miméomai` (μιμέομαι) or the noun `mimēsis` (μίμησις), encapsulates the essence of imitative capacity. It describes the quality or tendency of a being or thing to reproduce, enact, or depict something else.

The concept of `mimēlos` is inextricably linked to the broader theory of mimesis, which constitutes a foundational pillar of ancient Greek aesthetics and philosophy. In Plato, mimesis often carries a negative connotation, as art imitates sensible forms, which are themselves already imitations of eternal Ideas, thereby distancing humanity from truth. Thus, the `mimēlos` artist creates "images of images."

Conversely, Aristotle, in his `Poetics`, elevates mimesis to a natural human inclination and a creative act. For Aristotle, mimesis is not mere copying but a process of representation that can reveal universal truths and offer knowledge and catharsis. The `mimēlos`, in this context, is one who possesses the ability to create such representations, whether a poet, painter, or musician.

The word, therefore, transcends a simple description of a quality and is embedded within a rich conceptual framework that explores the relationship between art, reality, and truth. Understanding `mimēlos` is key to approaching ancient Greek thought on aesthetic experience and the function of art in human life.

Main Meanings

1. Capable of imitating, imitative — The primary meaning, describing the ability or tendency to imitate.
2. That which reproduces or depicts — Refers to something possessing the property of creating likenesses or representations.
3. One who enacts roles — Specifically in the context of theater or acting, the `mimēlos` is the actor.
4. One who imitates behaviors — Describes someone who copies the actions or mannerisms of others.
5. That which resembles, similar — Implies similarity or analogy to something else.
6. Pertaining to mimesis (as a theory) — In a philosophical context, refers to anything concerning the theory of mimesis in art and philosophy.

Word Family

mim- (root of the verb miméomai, meaning "to imitate, to mimic")

The root "mim-" forms the basis of a significant family of words in Ancient Greek, all revolving around the concept of representation, resemblance, and enactment. From the initial, simple act of imitating sound or movement, this root gave rise to terms that became central to aesthetics, philosophy, and art theory, describing both human capacity and the very nature of artistic creation. Each derivative highlights a different facet of this fundamental human function.

In Ancient Texts

The central position of mimesis in ancient Greek thought is captured in seminal texts, where `mimēlos` and its cognates are used to describe the essence of art and human nature.

The 18 Methods

Applying the 18 traditional lexarithmic methods to the word ΜΙΜΗΛΟΣ:

Sources & Bibliography

• Liddell, H. G., Scott, R., Jones, H. S. — A Greek-English Lexicon. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1940.
• Plato — Republic.
• Aristotle — Poetics.
• Diels, H., Kranz, W. — Die Fragmente der Vorsokratiker. Berlin: Weidmannsche Buchhandlung, 1951.
• Else, G. F. — Aristotle's Poetics: The Argument. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1957.
• Halliwell, S. — Aristotle's Poetics (Loeb Classical Library). Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1995.
• Tate, J. — "Plato and 'Mimesis'". The Classical Quarterly 30.1 (1936): 75-86.
• Golden, L. — Aristotle on Tragic and Comic Mimesis. Atlanta: Scholars Press, 1992.