Synopses & Reviews
Rich in drama and humor, this volume of seven dialogues includes the controversial Ion, a debate on poetic inspiration; Laches, in which Socrates seeks to define bravery; and Euthydemus, which considers the relationship between philosophy and politics. Together, these dialogues provide a definitive portrait of the real Socrates and raise issues still keenly debated by philosophers, forming an incisive overview of Plato’s philosophy.
As the father of Western philosophy, who transformed Greek thought with his questioning insights into life and ethics, Socrates was a powerful inspiration—and major irritant—to the Athenians of his day. After his trial and execution on charges of heresy and the corruption of young minds, his greatest pupil, Plato, wrote these early dialogues as an act of homage.
- Revised edition
- Features a new preface, updated sugestions for further reading, and a chronology
- Dialogues in this volume: Ion, Laches, Lysis, Chardmides, Hippias Major, Hippias Minor, and Euthydemus
About the Author
Plato (c. 427-347 b.c.) founded the Academy in Athens, the prototype of all Western universities, and wrote more than twenty philosophical dialogues.
Trevor J. Saunders has translated many volumes of Plato for the Penguin Classics.
Trevor J. Saunders has translated many volumes of Plato for the Penguin Classics.
Trevor J. Saunders has translated many volumes of Plato for the Penguin Classics.
Chris Emlyn-Jones teaches in the department of Classical Studies at the Open University.