The Complete Works of Plato

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1810
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About this ebook

Plato's "The Complete Works" presents a comprehensive anthology of his philosophical dialogues that shaped Western thought. Through a rich tapestry of forms, including Socratic dialogues, myths, and allegories, Plato explores profound themes such as justice, the ideal state, knowledge, love, and the essence of reality. This collection showcases his innovative use of dialectic method and his Allegory of the Cave, often regarded as a metaphor for human enlightenment. The literary style reflects a blend of rigor and artistry, illuminating the philosophical inquiries of Plato's time while establishing a timeless dialogue with future generations. Plato (c. 428/427–348/347 BCE) was not only a student of Socrates but also the teacher of Aristotle, making him a pivotal figure in the development of Western philosophy. His diverse experiences as a thinker, politician, and educator deeply influenced his writing. Living during the tumultuous period of post-Socratic Athens, Plato witnessed firsthand the complexities of human nature and governance, which provided rich material for his philosophical inquiries and critiques of culture. This essential compilation of Plato's works is highly recommended for anyone seeking to understand the foundations of Western philosophy. It invites readers to engage with Plato's perennial questions and stimulates critical thought, making it indispensable for scholars, students, or anyone introspecting on the nature of truth and existence.

About the author

Plato (c. 427–347 BCE) was a towering figure in ancient Greek philosophy, instrumental in laying the foundational structures of Western philosophical thought. A student of Socrates and the mentor of Aristotle, Plato's contributions span a multitude of philosophical areas, from metaphysics and epistemology to ethics and politics. His dialogues, characterized by a distinctive blend of poetic myth and rigorous argument, have been preserved in 'The Complete Works of Plato'. These texts are not only testament to Plato's philosophical ingenuity but also serve as precious historical documents detailing the intellectual climate of Athens in the Classical period. Among his most influential works are 'The Republic', 'The Symposium', and 'Phaedrus', wherein he explores his theory of forms, the notion of justice, and the nature of love, respectively. Plato's writing style is marked by its dialectical approach, a method involving the scrutiny and cross-examination of ideas in pursuit of truth. The Academy he founded in Athens was an unprecedented institution of higher learning and research, an intellectual hub that survived for nearly a millennium. His profound impact on philosophy and the broader scope of western intellectual history is widely acknowledged and continues to be studied and celebrated to this day.

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