Plotinus: Myth, Metaphor, and Philosophical Practice

In this book, distinguished philosopher Stephen R. L. Clark shows that they form a vital set of spiritual exercises by which individuals can achieve one of Plotinus's most important goals: self-transformation through contemplation. Clark examines a variety of Plotinus's myths and metaphors within the cultural and philosophical context of his time.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 19 March 2018
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

Plotinus, the renowned Roman philosopher who is widely acknowledged as the founder of Neoplatonism, left an indelible mark on the world through his creation of numerous myths, images, and metaphors. While these creations have resonated with secular philosophers and Christian and Muslim theologians, they have often been dismissed by modern scholars as mere ornamental. In his groundbreaking book, esteemed philosopher Stephen R. L. Clark unveils the profound significance of these myths and metaphors, revealing them as vital spiritual exercises that empower individuals to embark on a transformative journey toward self-realization. Clark delves into the rich tapestry of Plotinus's myths and metaphors, examining them within the cultural and philosophical context of his time. He raises thought-provoking questions about their contemplative effects, such as how to transcend the spatiality of material things, cultivate the state of mind recommended by Plotinus in his discussions of love, drunkenness, and nakedness, attain the starlike consciousness he evokes, understand the concept of the soul circling God, and bring the god within us back into harmony with the universal godhead. By employing these rich images and structures, Clark paints Plotinus as a philosopher deeply committed to philosophy as a way of life. Through his profound insights, Plotinus offers a path to enlightenment and self-discovery, inviting readers to embark on a journey of introspection and spiritual growth.

Weight: 556g
Dimension: 227 x 153 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226565057