Searching for the Divine in Plato and Aristotle: Philosophical Theoria and Traditional Practice

The book "Theoria: An Introduction to Ancient Festival-Attendance and Philosophical Theories" by Julie Ward explores the traditional meaning of "theoria," which refers to travel to festivals and shrines, and its connection to the philosophical account developed by Plato and Aristotle. She argues that both uses share the notion of having a visual experience of the sacred or divine.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 230 pages
\n Publication date: 16 December 2021
\n Publisher: Cambridge University Press
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Scholars of ancient philosophy often associate the term "theoria" with abstract thinking, as both Plato and Aristotle used it to signify philosophical contemplation. However, it may come as a surprise to some that the term had an earlier, more traditional meaning, referring to travel to festivals and shrines. In her book, Julie Ward aims to shed light on the nature of traditional theoria as ancient festival-attendance and the philosophical account developed in Plato and Aristotle.

Ward begins by examining the traditional use of the term, focusing on the complex social and political arrangements associated with periodic festivals. She explores how these festivals were not just mere gatherings but were integral to the community's religious and social practices. Ward then delves into the subsequent use of the term by Plato and Aristotle, highlighting the similarities and differences between their interpretations.

Through her analysis, Ward discerns a common thread running throughout both uses of the term: the notion of having a visual experience of the sacred or divine. She argues that this visual experience played a crucial role in shaping the philosophical accounts of Plato and Aristotle, as it allowed them to contemplate the nature of reality and the ultimate purpose of human existence.

Ward's book aims to illuminate the nature of philosophical theoria described by Plato and Aristotle in light of traditional, festival theoria. By exploring the historical and cultural context in which the term was used, Ward provides a fresh perspective on these ancient philosophical concepts and their relevance to contemporary thinking. Her work offers valuable insights into the relationship between philosophy, religion, and the human experience, and is a must-read for anyone interested in the study of ancient philosophy and its enduring impact.

\n Weight: 466g\n
Dimension: 158 x 235 x 22 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781316519417\n \n