In Book X of Plato’s Republic, the term mimesis is described as follows: “Dramatic art is an imitation of life. Life itself is but an imitation. Therefore, the art of drama is the imitation of an imitation.”
Furthermore, according to Plato’s theory of Ideas, the artist is merely the copier of a copy of the Idea that exists within the universe. Aristotle, however, understands mimesis differently. For him, it signifies representation or re-creation within dramatic art. Drama, therefore, is not simply an imitation of an imitation; it does not depict how people actually behave, but how they ought to behave.
If individuals who lived 2,500 years ago can still illuminate our path today, then either nothing has truly changed, or they possessed extraordinary foresight. Human beings are born, they live, and they die. Only the written word endures.
For this reason, we chose to name our publishing house Mimesis. In doing so, we honor the past while casting light toward the future. We hope that each of our publications brings a new perspective—and a fresh breath—into your life.