Plato : a guide for the perplexed / Gerald A. Press.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Press, Gerald A. (Gerald Alan), 1945-

Series:

Guides for the perplexed

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Plato.

Physical Description:

viii, 240 pages ; 23 cm.

Place of Publication:

London ; New York : Continuum, [2007]

Summary:

Continuum's Guides for the Perplexed are clear, concise and accessible introductions to thinkers, writers and subjects that readers find especially challenging. Concentrating specifically on what makes the subject difficult to grasp, these books explain key themes and ideas, guiding the reader towards a thorough understanding of demanding material. It is widely agreed that Plato laid the foundations for the whole history of western thought and, well over 2000 years later, his work is still studied by every student of philosophy. Yet his thought and writings continue to evoke perplexity in readers; and perplexity (aporia) is itself a characteristic of many of his writings, a recurrent motif of his thought, and apparently an important stage one must pass through along the path to wisdom that Plato presents.

Plato: A Guide for the Perplexed is a clear and thorough account of Plato's philosophy, his major works and ideas, providing an ideal guide to the important and complex thought of this key philosopher. The book offers a detailed review of all the major dialogues and explores the particular perplexities of the dialogue form. Geared towards the specific requirements of students who need to reach a sound understanding of Plato's thought, the book also provides a cogent and reliable survey of the whole history of Platonic interpretation and his far-reaching influence. This is the ideal companion to the study of this most influential and challenging of philosophers.

Contents:

Plato's life and works

The contexts for interpreting Plato's dialogues

A brief history of Platonism and Plato interpretation

Dialogue form

Arguments and ideas, vision and doctrines

Fables, myths and stories

Irony and other forms of humour

Play and seriousness

Paradox

Platonic anonymity and the nature of Plato's philosophy

Persistent themes and Plato's vision

The platonic path to wisdom

How to read a Platonic dialogue

Summaries of the dialogues.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references (pages 231-234) and index.

ISBN:

9780826491770

0826491774

9780826491763

0826491766

OCLC:

122261725