Question

How does Augustine's obsession with play relate to Aristotle's view of vice? Could play be considered the art of pleasure and pain?

a) Augustine views play as a necessary part of human development, while Aristotle sees it as a potential vice.
b) Both Augustine and Aristotle believe that play can be a tool for learning and development.
c) Augustine sees play as a form of self-indulgence, while Aristotle believes it can be a means to achieving virtue.
d) None of the above

Answer 1

Augustine views play as potentially indulgent and sinful, whereas Aristotle values play, especially in theatre, as a means for understanding and imitating virtue, which contributes to eudaimonia.

Step-by-step explanation:

When considering how Augustine's obsession with play relates to Aristotle's view of vice, and whether play could be considered the art of pleasure and pain, it is important to understand both philosophers' perspectives on virtue and human behavior. Aristotle's emphasis on the educational value of theatre, including the concept of catharsis, suggests that he viewed play and dramatic imitation as a means to understanding human virtue and vice, thereby contributing to personal development and happiness. On the other hand, Augustine's focus on free will versus predestination highlights internal conflict, with an implication that play might represent a form of self-indulgence potentially at odds with choosing the good.

So, when determining which of the given options aligns with their philosophies, option c) "Augustine sees play as a form of self-indulgence, while Aristotle believes it can be a means to achieving virtue." is the most accurate. Augustine sees play as potentially sinful indulgence, indicating a concern for moral development, akin to a vice if it does not lead towards choosing the good. Meanwhile, Aristotle values play, especially in the form of theatre, as a tool for understanding and imitating virtue, thereby contributing to eudaimonia.