Ion

(Hardback)

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Description

An award-winning public reader of Homer discusses poetry and the nature of performance with the probing and insightful Socrates in Platos immortal dialogue.

Ion, a professional rhapsode, performer of dramatic recitations of Homer and lecturer on poetry, has a revealing discussion with Socrates. Acclaimed for the power of his performances, Ion becomes so involved in performing that he feels the emotions described in his story and expects them to be transmitted to his audience, inspiring laughter or tears. More than this, Ion claims his understanding of Homer is second to none. Socrates offers a chain of subtly wily questions that cause much reconsideration of the nature of poets, poetry and artistic interpretation. The even, ironic tone of the philosopher makes a sharp and amusing contrast with Ions pride and energy in this elegant example of Platos penetrating thought.

With an eye-catching new cover, and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of Ion is both modern and readable.

Author Bio

Plato (aprox. 424-327 BC), a student of Socrates and the teacher of Aristotle, is commonly regarded as the centermost figure of Western philosophy. During the Classical period of Ancient Greece he was based in Athens where he founded his Academy and created the Platonist school of thought. His works are among the most influential in Western history, commanding interest and challenging readers of every era and background since they were composed.