L'origine dell'imitazione e la natura delle cose nel Libro X della Repubblica

This paper deals with Plato’s treatment of the metaphysical and epistemological status of mimesis in Republic 10. A new interpretation of the distinction between form, instrument and imitation is provided. A key role is played by the concept of use. The paper’s central idea is that what differentiates the products of real artisans from the products of painters and poets is that only the former can be used and this is on account of their relation to the form. Accordingly, if this is true, without forms one could not actually distinguish the real difference between material instruments and their imitation. As a result, the paper shows that the critique of mimesis sheds light on a fundamental trait of Plato’s conception of sensible particulars.