Discussion Questions
Kohl3094
PlatoandAristotle.pptxENG 271
Plato and Aristotle
a Classical Greek philosopher, mathematician
student of Socrates
writer of philosophical dialogues
founder of the Academy in Athens, the first institution of higher learning in the Western world
Plato (@427 BCE-@347 BCE)
a genre of prose literary works in which characters discuss moral and philosophical problems, illustrating a version of the Socratic method (learning through open ended, critical thinking questioning)
The Republic is one of Plato’s Socratic dialogues
Socratic dialogue
a Socratic dialogue written by Plato around 380 BC concerning the definition of justice and the order and character of the just city-state and the just man.[
The Republic
Allegory: A story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one. An extended metaphor.
In Book VII of The Republic, it follows the “metaphor of the sun.” In it, the sun symbolizes illumination or enlightenment.
Ideas are the highest form of knowledge—not physical sensations
Explores the philosopher’s role in society (they are best for leadership roles)
Knowledge is freedom
Those with knowledge are obliged to share it
The Allegory of the Cave
The Allegory of the Cave
Greek philosopher and sage
student of Plato
teacher of Alexander the Great
Aristotle (384-322 BCE)
335 BCE: the earliest-surviving work of dramatic theory and the first philosophical treatise to focus on literary theory.
Key terms:
Mimesis or "imitation", "representation"
Catharsis or, variously, "purgation", "purification", "clarification"
Mythos or "plot"
Ethos or "character"
Dianoia or "thought", "theme"
Lexis or "diction", "speech"
Melos, or "melody"
Opsis or "spectacle"
The Poetics
