Philosophy and Religion in Plato's Dialogues

Philosophers in ancient Greece developed new ideas about divinity, drawing on poetry, myth, and religious practices. Plato appropriated Greek religious discourses and practices to present his metaphysical philosophy, using the Greek conception of divine epiphany to claim that the Forms manifest their divinity epiphanically to the philosopher. Nightingale also discusses the Eleusinian and Orphic Mysteries and how they influenced Plato's thinking, challenging the idea that he was a secular thinker.

Format: Hardback
Length: 308 pages
Publication date: 06 May 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

In ancient Greece, a vibrant intellectual movement emerged, where philosophers delved into profound and captivating explorations of divinity. Drawing upon a rich tapestry of poetry, myth, and religious practices, these thinkers sought to forge new theological frameworks. One notable philosopher who embraced this cultural milieu was Plato. According to Andrea Nightingale, Plato actively participated in this philosophical tradition and incorporated specific Greek religious discourses and practices into his metaphysical philosophy.

In particular, Plato utilized the Greek concept of divine epiphany, wherein a god appears to humans, to argue that the Forms manifest their divinity epiphanically to the philosopher. Through the contemplation of these abstract entities and the broader cosmos, the human soul is transformed, becoming divine. Nightingale further delves into the intricate details of the Eleusinian and Orphic Mysteries, two mystery religions that exerted a significant influence on Plato's thinking. She explores how these religions shaped his understanding of the nature of reality, the soul, and the ultimate purpose of existence.

This book presents a compelling challenge to the notion that Plato can be categorized as a secular thinker. It demonstrates that his philosophical inquiry was deeply rooted in religious and mystical traditions, and his ideas were shaped by the broader cultural context of ancient Greece. By examining Plato's use of Greek religious concepts and his engagement with mystery religions, Nightingale sheds light on the intricate interplay between philosophy, religion, and the human quest for meaning. This work offers valuable insights into the rich tapestry of ancient Greek thought and its enduring impact on the world of philosophy.

Weight: 576g
Dimension: 161 x 234 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108837309