Die Problematik der Nachahmung bei J.M.R. Lenz und Georg Lukács
Abstract
The present work deals with the concept of mimesis/imitation in art and litera-ture, in particular with its use and interpretation by J.M.R. Lenz and Georg Lukács. Mimesis/Imitation as the basic concept of the arts plays a significant role in the development of realism both authors support. Both Lenz and Lukács share Aristotle's views on the Mimesis/imitation as the nature of poetry and see its origins in anthropology. However, in contrast to Aristotle Lenz emphasizes the empirical side of imitation; in principle awarding the artist the critical role and responsibility for the capture and reflection of the whole. Lukács converts his earlier metaphysics into a Marxist philosophy of history. In a homogeneous medium of art it should be possible for realistic art to show the essence and the particulars of the society of its time.