Alcibiades II By: Unknown (427? BC - 347? BC)
Alcibiades II is a thought-provoking philosophical treatise that delves into the realms of morality, justice, and education. Although the origin and author of this work remains unknown, its value lies not in the name but in the depth of its ideas. The book begins with Alcibiades, a prominent historical figure of ancient Greece, seeking guidance from Socrates. The narrative takes the form of a dialogue between the two characters. Through their engaging conversations, readers are invited to explore the nature of virtue and the role of education in cultivating it. One of the fascinating aspects of this book is the way it challenges conventional notions of morality. It argues that virtue cannot be achieved simply through external actions or appearances. Instead, the cultivation of wisdom and self-knowledge is essential for cultivating true virtue. Alcibiades II compels readers to question their own understanding of morality and consider the importance of introspection and self-improvement. The exploration of justice within this book is also captivating. The discussions between Alcibiades and Socrates highlight the intricacies of justice and its relation to power, wealth, and knowledge. The reader is encouraged to contemplate the role of justice in society and reflect on how it can be achieved in a world that often seems unfair and chaotic. Furthermore, Alcibiades II offers perceptive insights into the nature of education. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to education, one that aims not just to impart knowledge but also cultivates ethical values and self-awareness. It raises intriguing questions about the purpose of education and the responsibilities of both students and teachers. The strength of this book lies in its ability to provoke deep reflection and foster intellectual engagement. The philosophical ideas presented are complex, requiring careful consideration and interpretation. While some readers may find the discussions dense or challenging, the rewards of grappling with these concepts are profound. One drawback of this work is its dated language and contextual references, which can make it slightly inaccessible to modern readers. However, this can be overcome by taking time to familiarize oneself with the historical context and philosophical traditions of ancient Greece. In conclusion, Alcibiades II is an ancient philosophical masterpiece that explores timeless questions of morality, justice, and education. Despite the anonymity of its author, the depth of its ideas and the intellectual stimulation it provides make it a valuable addition to any reader's philosophical collection. It reminds us that the pursuit of virtue and self-knowledge is an ongoing journey, and challenges us to reflect upon our own beliefs and values. First Page: ALCIBIADES II by An Imatator of Plato (see Appendix II) Translated by Benjamin Jowett APPENDIX II. The two dialogues which are translated in the second appendix are not mentioned by Aristotle, or by any early authority, and have no claim to be ascribed to Plato. They are examples of Platonic dialogues to be assigned probably to the second or third generation after Plato, when his writings were well known at Athens and Alexandria. They exhibit considerable originality, and are remarkable for containing several thoughts of the sort which we suppose to be modern rather than ancient, and which therefore have a peculiar interest for us. The Second Alcibiades shows that the difficulties about prayer which have perplexed Christian theologians were not unknown among the followers of Plato. The Eryxias was doubted by the ancients themselves: yet it may claim the distinction of being, among all Greek or Roman writings, the one which anticipates in the most striking manner the modern science of political economy and gives an abstract form to some of its principal doctrines. For the translation of these two dialogues I am indebted to my friend and secretary, Mr. Knight. That the Dialogue which goes by the name of the Second Alcibiades is a genuine writing of Plato will not be maintained by any modern critic, and was hardly believed by the ancients themselves... Continue reading book >>

Alcibiades II By: Unknown (427? BC - 347? BC)

Alcibiades II is a thought-provoking philosophical treatise that delves into the realms of morality, justice, and education. Although the origin and author of this work remains unknown, its value lies not in the name but in the depth of its ideas.

The book begins with Alcibiades, a prominent historical figure of ancient Greece, seeking guidance from Socrates. The narrative takes the form of a dialogue between the two characters. Through their engaging conversations, readers are invited to explore the nature of virtue and the role of education in cultivating it.

One of the fascinating aspects of this book is the way it challenges conventional notions of morality. It argues that virtue cannot be achieved simply through external actions or appearances. Instead, the cultivation of wisdom and self-knowledge is essential for cultivating true virtue. Alcibiades II compels readers to question their own understanding of morality and consider the importance of introspection and self-improvement.

The exploration of justice within this book is also captivating. The discussions between Alcibiades and Socrates highlight the intricacies of justice and its relation to power, wealth, and knowledge. The reader is encouraged to contemplate the role of justice in society and reflect on how it can be achieved in a world that often seems unfair and chaotic.

Furthermore, Alcibiades II offers perceptive insights into the nature of education. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to education, one that aims not just to impart knowledge but also cultivates ethical values and self-awareness. It raises intriguing questions about the purpose of education and the responsibilities of both students and teachers.

The strength of this book lies in its ability to provoke deep reflection and foster intellectual engagement. The philosophical ideas presented are complex, requiring careful consideration and interpretation. While some readers may find the discussions dense or challenging, the rewards of grappling with these concepts are profound.

One drawback of this work is its dated language and contextual references, which can make it slightly inaccessible to modern readers. However, this can be overcome by taking time to familiarize oneself with the historical context and philosophical traditions of ancient Greece.

In conclusion, Alcibiades II is an ancient philosophical masterpiece that explores timeless questions of morality, justice, and education. Despite the anonymity of its author, the depth of its ideas and the intellectual stimulation it provides make it a valuable addition to any reader's philosophical collection. It reminds us that the pursuit of virtue and self-knowledge is an ongoing journey, and challenges us to reflect upon our own beliefs and values.

First Page:

ALCIBIADES II

by An Imatator of Plato

(see Appendix II)

Translated by Benjamin Jowett

APPENDIX II.

The two dialogues which are translated in the second appendix are not mentioned by Aristotle, or by any early authority, and have no claim to be ascribed to Plato. They are examples of Platonic dialogues to be assigned probably to the second or third generation after Plato, when his writings were well known at Athens and Alexandria. They exhibit considerable originality, and are remarkable for containing several thoughts of the sort which we suppose to be modern rather than ancient, and which therefore have a peculiar interest for us. The Second Alcibiades shows that the difficulties about prayer which have perplexed Christian theologians were not unknown among the followers of Plato. The Eryxias was doubted by the ancients themselves: yet it may claim the distinction of being, among all Greek or Roman writings, the one which anticipates in the most striking manner the modern science of political economy and gives an abstract form to some of its principal doctrines.

For the translation of these two dialogues I am indebted to my friend and secretary, Mr. Knight.

That the Dialogue which goes by the name of the Second Alcibiades is a genuine writing of Plato will not be maintained by any modern critic, and was hardly believed by the ancients themselves... Continue reading book >>

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