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Symposium
註釋In 'Symposium,' Plato presents a masterful interplay of philosophical ideas through a series of speeches delivered by Athenian socialites and intellectuals at a convivial gathering. This dialogue delves into the nature of love, with the concept of Platonic love originating therein. As the guests wax eloquent on the qualities and purposes of love, Plato orchestrates a tapestry of voices, from the comic poet Aristophanes to the tragic figure Alcibiades, all centered around the sage Socrates. Its dialectic approach and exploration of abstract themes mirror the philosophical tradition of ancient Greece and its intellectual milieu, offering a window into the transcendent forms of beauty and virtue. The literary prowess of the work is amplified by its rich allegories and the meticulous craftsmanship of Socrates' discourse, mirroring the Socratic method of relentless questioning to uncover deeper truths.nPlato, a student of Socrates and the teacher of Aristotle, is one of the defining figures in Western philosophy. 'Symposium' emerges from his middle period, which also produced works like 'Republic' and 'Phaedrus,' reflecting a deep engagement with ethical, metaphysical, and epistemological questions. Written in approximately 385-370 BCE, the dialogue encapsulates Plato's philosophical acumen, spurred by the execution of Socrates, his mentor, and his quest to reconcile human behavior with the pursuit of higher knowledge. It stands as a testament to his life-long endeavor to illuminate the human condition through reasoned discourse and the contemplation of the eternal forms.n'Symposium' is recommended not only for its historical significance as a seminal text in the Western canon but also for its enduring philosophical insights. The work invites readers across disciplines—be it philosophy, classics, literature, or psychology—to explore the multifaceted nature of love, morality, and the pursuit of truth. It is a compelling read for those seeking to understand the foundations of Western thought and the timeless quest for meaning that resonates as much today as it did in Plato's Athens.