The Play of Character in Plato's Dialogues
The Play of Character in Plato's Dialogues
This book is an interpretation of Plato in general, and several dialogues in particular, from the point of view of dramatic characterization. It thus forms part of the growing movement towards reading Plato "dramatically", as opposed to reading him as if he wrote treatises like most philosophers. At the same time, it is intended to show traditional "analytical" philosophical interpreters the significance of such "literary" features for understanding the philosophical issues at stake. Its overall goal is to bridge the gulf still existing between such interpreters and more "literary" readers.
- Treats dramatic characterization as fundamental to the interpretation of Plato
- Provides a sophisticated discussion of the debate over 'form' and 'content' in Plato
- Offers an interesting take on the 'Sokratic question' by examining the various figures of Sokrates in relationship to each other rather than to some putative historical figure
Reviews & endorsements
"Blondell has produced a fine study of Plato's use of characterization, one that must be reckoned with--and will be read with pleasure--by all serious students of the dialogues." Bryn Mawr Classical Review
"How are we to understand that Plato, the champion of transcendent and impersonal ideals, is also a brilliant depicter of human individuality? Blondell confronts this paradox in the most comprehensive and insightful treatment available of Plato's representation of human character.... highly recommended for college and university libraries; for upper-level undergraduates and above." Choice
"...rich and insightful...What to some Plato scholars was an exasperating and perplexing doctrine is productively contextualized by Blondell. We can now read Theaetetus with richer understanding than before. What more can one ask of scholarship?...Blondell has given us a narrative of Platonic development that...allows us to read the Platonic corpus in a way that makes sense of its many parts...we have a new perspective on Plato, a deeper appreciation than before of his commingling of literary power and philosophical wisdom." New England Classical Journal
"An impressive piece of scholarship worthy of close and considered attention." Ancient Philosophy
"B. has produced a richly detailed and complex study of an aspect of the dialogues which is often overlooked and her book is a valuable contribution to Platonic scholarship." - Tania Gergel, King's College London
Product details
November 2006Paperback
9780521031424
468 pages
228 × 152 × 28 mm
0.705kg
Available
Table of Contents
- Preface
- 1. Drama and dialogue
- 2. The imitation of character
- 3. The elenctic Sokrates at work: Hippias Minor
- 4. A changing cast of characters: Republic
- 5. Reproducing Sokrates: Theaetetus
- 6. Putting Sokrates in his place: Sophist and Statesman
- Bibliography
- General index
- Index of passages cited.
