Maieusis: Essays in Ancient Philosophy in Honour of Myles Burnyeat

Abstract

This book pays tribute to the highly influential work of Myles Burnyeat, whose contributions to the study of ancient philosophy have done much to enhance the profile of the subject around the world. What is distinctive about his work is his capacity to deepen our understanding of the relation between ancient and modern thought, and to combine the best of contemporary philosophy - its insights as well as its rigour - with a deep sensitivity to classical texts. Nineteen experts in the field examine a wide range of topics in ancient philosophy, with a particular focus on Plato. Topics include Socrates and the nature of philosophy; the different aspects of eros in the Symposium, Republic, and Phaedrus; the Phaedo's arguments for immortality, wars, and warriors in Plato; and the different aspects of the cave allegory in the Republic.