Errors of Averroes
Logic, Poetry and Commentary
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Beschreibung
This book refutes the common "error" attributed to Averroes, demonstrating that his equation of madīḥ
(encomium) and hijā' (invective) with Greek tragedy/comedy is not an inadequacy but a functional use within his
logical system and the repertoire of Arabic poetry.
Marco Calil re-examines the Science of the Art of Poetry through Averroes' Middle Commentary on Aristotle's
Poetics. The book challenges the persistent accusation that Averroes made an "error" by inappropriately equating
the Arabic terms madīḥ (encomium) and hijā' (invective) with Greek "tragedy" and "comedy". Adopting a counter-
accusatory approach, the author rigorously demonstrates that no such error exists in Averroes' Commentary.
The book reveals that Averroes' use of these terms is not about perfect equivalence, but rather their functional
integration within his logico-analytical system and the repertoire of Arabic poetry. By defining madīḥ and hijā'
through primary sources on Arabic Poetry, Poetics, and Belles-Lettres (adab), the work shows their widespread
presence in various textual forms beyond philosophical commentary. This study dispels the notion of error as
inadequate correspondence and refutes the idea that pre-modern Arabic poetic canons are "trivial". It offers a
sophisticated new perspective on a classic debate.
Autor*in
Marco Calil