The Role of (Greek text) in Philosophical Ascent in the Phaedrus: From Corporeal Beauty to Philosophical Friendship

Abstract

This article clarifies the role of (Greek text) in the philosophical ascent towards the form of beauty itself in the Phaedrus. For this, I distinguish the two concepts of (Greek text) used by Socrates in his first and second speech and analyze the relationship between the two. Then, I examine the role that corporeal beauty plays in the awakening of the divine (Greek text) and how only this (Greek text), considered as divine μανία, makes possible the subjugation of disordered inclination; this subjugation allows to seek what is wise, good, and beautiful. Thus, the lover can begin a philosophical life, one that is not carried out in solitude, but in friendship. This is the novelty brought by the Phaedrus.