Observe And Take Note

Worksheet Description

This educational worksheet is focused on the concept of catharsis in literature and other storytelling mediums. The term originates from Greek, translating to a cleansing or purging of emotions, which Aristotle famously associated with the audience’s experience during a tragedy. The worksheet outlines the cathartic process as the release of strong emotions, leading to a sense of renewal or relief from anxiety or stress. It references Aristotle’s “Poetics” as the foundational text that explains how the structure of a tragedy can lead to an emotional purgation for those engaged with the story.

Students are prompted to engage with catharsis on a personal level by recalling a story, movie, or television program that elicited such an emotional release in them. The task encourages introspection and connection, as they are asked to name the story, summarize its events, and reflect on the emotions they felt and released. This not only facilitates a deeper understanding of catharsis but also helps students to recognize the impact stories can have on personal well-being and emotional processing. By considering the transformative power of narratives, they learn to appreciate the role of stories in personal and cultural contexts.