The Allegory of the Cave

Question 1

What does this parable represent

Answer 1

The parable is about knowing the difference between truth and falsehood, it is about why philosophy is important, even if it is painful and difficult.

Question 2

What do the shadows represent

Answer 2

The shadows represent the world as we see it through our ordinary senses. It is not the real world.

Question 3

What does the journey from the cave to the outside world represent

Answer 3

The journey out of the cave symbolises people starting to think for themselves and question what they have been taught. It is the journey of the mind or soul.

Question 4

What does the sun represent

Answer 4

The sun represents the source of truth; it is the ultimate reality; it is ‘the Good’ – the source of all perfection.

Question 5

What does the returning (outcast) prisoner represent

Answer 5

Treatment of the returning prisoner shows that many will treat the philosopher as a trouble maker because he will upset beliefs. It could even cost philosophers their lives, literally and metaphorically.

Question 6

What do the prisoners represent

Answer 6

The prisoners are ordinary people. They are not free because they do not know the truth.