Poesie therefore, is an Art of Imitation: for so Aristotle termeth it in the word mimesis{24}, that is to say, a representing, counterfeiting, or figuring forth to speake Metaphorically. A speaking Picture, with this end to teach and delight{25}.

—Sir Philip Sydney, Defence of Poesie (1595)

{24} Aristotle, Poetics I.2.

{25} Horace, Ars Poetica. Plutarch says, in the Moralia, that Simonides said this first.