Which literary term describes the Renaissance artistic principle of surpassing classical Greek and Roman models, moving beyond simple imitation (imitatio)?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Aemulatio, the deliberate striving to excel and outdo ancient classical masters in poetic craft
- Step 1: Renaissance poetics recognized three progressive stages in engaging with antiquity: translatio (translating), imitatio (imitating), and aemulatio (surpassing). Step 2. Aemulatio represents the highest aspiration: creating vernacular masterpieces superior to the classical exemplars. Answer: Aemulatio, the deliberate striving to excel and outdo ancient classical masters in poetic craft. Why not the others: Imitatio is mere imitation; translatio is translation; catharsis is an Aristotelian dramatic effect.
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