Plato - the Sun

Question 1

What does the Sun represent?

Answer 1

The Form of Good.

Question 2

Where in the Republic is the metaphor found?

Answer 2

507b-509c

Question 3

Outline the metaphor

Answer 3

Without light of the Sun we cannot see; the Sun enables the visible to become apparent to the eye.
The Idea of Good enables truth - the nature of reality - to become apparent to the Soul.

Question 4

As a source of uncovering.

Answer 4

Just as the light and sight are considered ‘like’ the Sun but are actually not such, science and truths can be said to be like Good but not actually be such. It is through the Sun there is light and sight, and through the Good there is truth and science.
Sun/Good however is different and greater than what derives from it.

Question 5

As source of generation.

Answer 5

Just as the sun is the author of nourishment and generation but does not engage in generation/growth itself, the Good is the author of being and essence whilst not itself essence”
“the good…transcends essence in dignity and surpassing power” [509b]