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by Robin Sharma
Symposium by Plato is a philosophical work that explores the nature of love and desire through a series of speeches at a drinking party. It examines different perspectives on love and its origin.
In Symposium, Plato allows us to attend one of the most famous parties in history where guests decided to share speeches on love, instead of indulging in the usual drinking and revelry. Starting with Phaedrus, the speeches unravel different perspectives on Love. Phaedrus asserts that Love is the oldest god and it benefits those who love by granting courage and valor. Pausanias adds complexity to the narrative by differentiating between Common Love, which is purely physical, and Heavenly Love, which transcends the physical, cherishing intellect and wisdom.
Eryximachus, a physician, takes the stage next, categorizing Love into wholesome and unwholesome, relating it to the balance within the human body. Meanwhile, Aristophanes presents a whimsical tale explaining how humans were originally round, whole beings. When they threatened the gods, Zeus divided them, leaving us with yearning for wholeness, symbolizing the search for soulmates.
Next, Agathon delivers a paradoxically eloquent speech, celebrating Love as the most beautiful and best of all gods, responsible for planting virtues in human hearts. This prompts Socrates to critique how Agathon has described love according to its effects, not its inherent character. Socrates brings forth his own views about Love as a philosophical pursuit of Beauty and Truth, advocating its role in the ascent to divine, intellectual understanding.
The party takes an unexpected turn as Alcibiades, an Athenian general, staggers in, drunk, and delivers a passionate encomium not to love, but to Socrates himself. Here, Alcibiade’s speech serves as an explicit example of a person misguided by love. He has used love to fulfil his personal aspirations, leading to disappointment when Socrates did not return his expectations.
Socrates explains that the object of one's love defines its merit. He upholds that the ultimate form of love is not directed towards physical beauty but towards wisdom and true knowledge. While physical attractiveness fades with time, intellectual and divine beauty remains unscathed. Thus, the seeker of wisdom finds beauty not only in young bodies and humans but in laws, customs, sciences, and ultimately in the divine beauty of Forms.
Through this discussion, Plato presents the idea of Forms, abstract, perfect ideals that exist beyond perceptible reality. According to him, love can help a philosophical mind ascend beyond transient physical beauty to comprehend these Forms, ultimately leading to divine and intellectual understanding.
Plato's Symposium concludes with guests yielding to slumber and Socrates insatiably continuing his philosophical dialogues with Agathon and Aristophanes. This leaves us with a vivid impression of Socrates’ unwavering dedication to wisdom and philosophy.
In conclusion, the debate of various perspectives on love in Plato's Symposium showcases the divergence and depth of Ancient Greek thought from physical to divine love, ultimately pointing towards intellectual pursuits and wisdom. Through Symposium, readers get an unusual chance to witness firsthand not only a pivotal moment in Western Philosophy but also the lively social undercurrents of Plato's time.
Symposium is a philosophical text written by Plato, which takes the form of a dialogue between various characters. The book explores the nature of love and its place in society, as well as the different forms of love and their significance. Through thought-provoking discussions and arguments, Plato delves into the complexities of human relationships and the pursuit of wisdom. It is a timeless work that continues to inspire and challenge readers to contemplate the nature of love and its role in our lives.
Symposium (Written in the 4th Century BCE) by Plato explores the nature of love and desire, making it a fascinating read. Here's why this book is worth diving into:
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Try Blinkist to get the key ideas from 7,500+ bestselling nonfiction titles and podcasts. Listen or read in just 15 minutes.
Start your free trialBlink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
What is the main message of Symposium?
The main message of Symposium is the nature of love and the power of desire and beauty.
How long does it take to read Symposium?
The reading time for Symposium varies depending on the reader, but it typically takes several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Symposium a good book? Is it worth reading?
Symposium is worth reading because it explores the complexities of love and desire, offering profound insights into human nature.
Who is the author of Symposium?
The author of Symposium is Plato.