Menexenus, Euthyphro, Laches and Lysis Dialogues of Plato

by Plato

Overview

Menexenus The Menexenus is in large part a funeral oration delivered by Socrates, which he claims was provided by Aspasia, Pericles' mistress. Interpreters of the work are divided over the intention of the work and how it should be understood. It is a parody, an exercise in rhetoric, or serious and a representation of Plato's political ideals? Euthyphro Often underrated, Euthyphro examines the nature of piety and demonstrates the dangers of pretending to have knowledge that one does not have. Socrates, on his way to the court where he will be charged with atheism and corrupting the young, meets the young 'prophet' Euthyphro and asks him to explain, "what is piety and what impiety"? Laches In Laches Plato examines courage, in particular moral courage. Morally good conduct requires not only the ability to distinguish what the right course of action is, but also the strength of will to act accordingly. In this dialogue Laches, Nicias and Socrates debate various definitions of courage. Lysis An engaging examination of friendship that has not received the attention that it deserves. Socrates discusses the types of friendship and the notion of a primary object of love, for whose sake one loves other things.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781605125428
Publisher:	Akasha Classics
Publication date:	11/12/2009
Pages:	164
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.50(h) x 0.38(d)

About the Author

Plato, one of the most famous philosophers in the world, lived during the Classical Period in Ancient Greece. A student of Socrates and a teacher to Aristotle, he was the founder of The Academy, the first school of higher learning in Europe. Plato is the most prominent figure in the history of Ancient Greek philosophy and the originator of the Platonist school of thought. Using dramatic elements like dialogue and humor, his form of writing was considered innovative in his time. Plato's best–known work, The Republic, is widely acknowledged as the cornerstone of Western philosophy. His other extensively read works include The Symposium, Apology, Crito, Phaedo, and The Laws.