Plato's Symposium

Definition

Plato's Symposium is a philosophical text that presents a series of speeches given at a banquet in honor of the playwright Agathon. The work delves into the nature of love (Eros), showcasing various perspectives from notable figures such as Socrates and Aristophanes. It serves as a cornerstone of classical Athenian literature and philosophy, reflecting the intellectual milieu of its time and influencing subsequent discussions on love, beauty, and ethics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Symposium is structured as a series of speeches about love, each reflecting the speaker's views and philosophies, culminating in Socrates' recounting of Diotima's teachings.
2. One of the most famous ideas from the Symposium is the concept of love as a ladder, where individuals can ascend from physical attraction to the love of pure beauty and ultimately to the love of wisdom.
3. Socrates argues that true love is not merely about physical desire but encompasses a deeper appreciation for the intellectual and spiritual aspects of another person.
4. The dialogue also explores themes such as immortality through procreation and the pursuit of virtue, making it relevant to both personal relationships and broader philosophical inquiries.
5. The Symposium reflects the social customs of classical Athens, particularly the significance of symposia (drinking parties) as venues for intellectual discourse and social bonding.

Review Questions

• How do the different speeches in Plato's Symposium contribute to our understanding of love in classical Athenian society?
  • The various speeches in Plato's Symposium provide a multi-faceted exploration of love, showcasing how different speakers approach the topic based on their experiences and beliefs. Each perspective, from Aristophanes' mythological account to Socrates' philosophical insights, reveals cultural attitudes toward love and relationships in classical Athens. This diversity highlights not only the complexity of Eros but also how deeply intertwined love was with social status, friendship, and personal fulfillment.
• Discuss how Socrates' view of love differs from those presented by other characters in the Symposium, particularly regarding its nature and purpose.
  • Socrates presents a more philosophical and abstract understanding of love compared to other characters who focus on physical attraction or personal desire. While speakers like Agathon celebrate romantic love's beauty, Socrates emphasizes the importance of seeking truth and wisdom through love. He introduces Diotima's idea that love is a desire for immortality through the pursuit of higher knowledge, thus framing love as a means to achieve intellectual growth rather than merely physical gratification.
• Evaluate the impact of Plato's Symposium on later philosophical thought concerning love and relationships, citing specific examples from modern interpretations.
  • Plato's Symposium has profoundly influenced philosophical discourse on love throughout history. Its exploration of Eros as both a driving force and a pathway to higher understanding has inspired thinkers like Aristotle, who expanded on these concepts in his own writings. In modern times, discussions around Platonic love often arise in psychological theories about attachment and emotional intimacy, showcasing how these ancient ideas continue to resonate today. The dialogue encourages a critical examination of how individuals approach relationships, blending intellectual pursuits with personal connections.

Related terms

Eros: In Greek mythology, Eros is the god of love, representing romantic and passionate love, which is a central theme in the Symposium.

Socratic Method: A form of cooperative argumentative dialogue that stimulates critical thinking, often used by Socrates to engage others in philosophical discussions.

Platonic Love: A type of love that transcends physical attraction and is based on an emotional or spiritual connection, deriving its name from ideas presented in Plato's works.