Plato Books

Plato, Socrates’s most famous student, was a philosopher and mathematician during the Greek classic period (5th – 4th century BCE). He wrote over 30 dialogues and philosophical texts on a wide variety of subjects, including love, knowledge, ethics, politics, metaphysics and theology.

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1
 Books: The Republic by Plato

The Republic

Plato
4.5 (622 ratings)
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What's The Republic about?

Plato’s Republic (c. 380 BCE) is a dialogue in which Socrates and his interlocutors discuss the attributes and virtues that make for the most just person and for the most just form of government. The Republic also examines the relationship between the citizen and the city, and considers how this relationship bears on philosophy, politics, ethics and art.

Who should read The Republic?

  • Anyone interested in history
  • Anyone interested in classical philosophy
  • Anyone interested in politics

What's The Trial and Death of Socrates about?

This book is a philosophical dialogue written by Plato, recounting the trial and eventual execution of the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates. Through thought-provoking conversations, it explores Socrates' defense of his beliefs and his unwavering commitment to truth and justice, making it a timeless examination of the nature of knowledge, morality, and the pursuit of wisdom.

Who should read The Trial and Death of Socrates?

  • Readers who are interested in philosophy and the teachings of Socrates
  • Individuals looking to expand their understanding of ancient Greek philosophy
  • Those who appreciate thought-provoking discussions on ethics and justice

3
 Books: Phaedo by Plato

Phaedo

Plato
4.1 (301 ratings)
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What's Phaedo about?

Phaedo (written around 360 BC), discusses the immortality of the soul, life after death, and true philosophy. It showcases Socratic dialogues, where Socrates, on his deathbed, debates these subjects with his disciples.

Who should read Phaedo?

  • Philosophy enthusiasts
  • Those interested in the afterlife
  • Seekers of metaphysical knowledge

What's Symposium about?

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.

Who should read Symposium?

  • Philosophy students and enthusiasts seeking to explore the nature of love and its implications
  • Readers interested in understanding the concepts of beauty, desire, and the pursuit of wisdom
  • Individuals curious about the ancient Greek society and its intellectual discourse

What's Euthyphro about?

Euthyphro is a philosophical dialogue written by Plato, in which Socrates engages in a debate with Euthyphro about the nature of piety and the definition of holiness. Through their discussion, the book explores the concepts of morality, ethics, and the relationship between the gods and human actions. It challenges readers to critically examine their own beliefs and values.

Who should read Euthyphro?

  • Philosophy enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of ethical dilemmas
  • Students or scholars of ancient Greek philosophy
  • Individuals interested in exploring the foundations of moral reasoning and morality

What's Crito about?

Crito is a philosophical dialogue written by Plato, which takes place in the prison cell of Socrates. The book explores the themes of justice, morality, and the role of the individual in society. Through a conversation between Socrates and his friend Crito, Plato examines the idea of obeying the laws of the state and the concept of civil disobedience. It raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of justice and the obligations of citizens to their government.

Who should read Crito?

  • Philosophy enthusiasts seeking to explore moral and ethical dilemmas
  • Those interested in Plato's theories of justice and the nature of law
  • Individuals looking to deepen their understanding of ancient Greek philosophy and its relevance today

7
 Books: The Symposium by Plato

The Symposium

Plato
4.5 (157 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Symposium about?

The Symposium (c. 385–370 BC) invites you on an exploration of love through a series of speeches at an Athenian feast. You’ll engage with the timeless insights of ancient Greek intellectuals as they delve into the nature and purpose of love – and, in the process, unpack love’s relation to desire, connection, wisdom, and beauty.

Who should read The Symposium?

  • Philosophy enthusiasts interested in classical Greek thought
  • Students studying ancient literature and Socratic dialogues
  • Anyone intrigued by themes of love and human nature

What's The Allegory of the Cave about?

The Allegory of the Cave by Plato is a thought-provoking philosophical work that explores the nature of reality and the power of knowledge. Through a fictional dialogue, Plato presents the allegory as a metaphor for our everyday lives and challenges us to question the truths we perceive. It delves into the concept of enlightenment and the journey from ignorance to understanding.

Who should read The Allegory of the Cave?

  • Individuals who are interested in philosophy and the nature of reality

  • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating literature

  • Those who seek to challenge their perceptions and expand their understanding of the world