Plato

Question 1

Pandemian Eros

Answer 1

In Plato’s Symposium, Pandemian Eros refers to the “common” form of love, associated with physical attraction and desires, particularly those aimed at the body rather than the soul. It is considered a lesser, more earthly form of love, often focused on temporary pleasure.

Question 2

Uranian Eros

Answer 2

In contrast to Pandemian Eros, Uranian Eros (or “heavenly” love) in Symposium represents a more noble and spiritual form of love, directed towards the intellect and soul. It transcends physical desire, focusing on the moral and intellectual development of both the lover and the beloved.

Question 3

Pederasty

Answer 3

An ancient Greek social practice involving a relationship between an adult man and an adolescent boy, often educational and mentorship-oriented. While physical attraction was involved, in the Platonic tradition, such relationships were ideally supposed to promote the boy’s intellectual and moral development.

Question 4

Ascent

Answer 4

In Plato’s philosophy, particularly in the Symposium and Phaedrus, the “ascent” refers to the progression of the soul from physical attraction to an individual body, through appreciation of all physical beauty, and ultimately to the contemplation of pure, abstract beauty or the Form of Beauty itself. This ascent symbolizes the philosopher’s path towards truth and enlightenment.

Question 5

Sophistry

Answer 5

Sophistry refers to a method of teaching and argumentation employed by Sophists, who were professional teachers in ancient Greece. Sophists were often criticized by Plato for using rhetoric and clever argumentation to deceive or manipulate, without concern for truth or moral integrity. Plato contrasts sophistry with philosophy, which seeks genuine knowledge.

Question 6

Doxa

Answer 6

In Plato’s philosophy, doxa refers to common belief or opinion, often contrasted with episteme, which is true knowledge. Doxa is based on perception and is subject to change and error, whereas knowledge (episteme) is stable and concerned with the eternal and unchanging Forms. Plato criticizes reliance on doxa in favour of seeking true knowledge through reason.

Question 7

Erastes

Answer 7

In ancient Greek culture, the erastes was the older male in a pederastic relationship, typically acting as a mentor, teacher, or protector to a younger male. The erastes was expected to guide the eromenos in moral, intellectual, and sometimes physical or sexual development. The relationship was seen as an important social and educational bond.

Question 8

Eromenos

Answer 8

The eromenos was the younger male in a pederastic relationship, typically an adolescent. He was the recipient of the older man’s guidance, learning from the erastes in areas of virtue, philosophy, and societal norms. The eromenos was expected to gain wisdom and eventually become a well-rounded citizen, while the relationship was ideally based on mutual respect.