Philosopher-Kings of Antiquity
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One of the most celebrated of Plato's ideas was that if human society was ever to function successfully then philosophers would need to become kings, or kings philosophers. In a perfect state, therefore, philosophic wisdom should be wedded to political power.
In antiquity, who were or aspired to be philosopher-kings? What was their understanding of wisdom and the limits of knowledge? What influence have they had on periods beyond antiquity? This volume focuses on Plato and his contemporaries; Alexander the Great and his Hellenistic successors; Marcus Aurelius and the 'good emperors'; Moses, Solomon and early Hebrew leaders; and Julian the Apostate, the last of the pagans. In conclusion it looks at the re-emergence of the Platonic ideal in important moments of European history, such as the Enlightenment. The theme of the philosopher-king is significant for Greco-Roman antiquity as a whole, and this work isunique in detailing the development of an idea through major periods of Greek and Roman history, and beyond.
Format:Hardcover
Language:English
ISBN:0826434754
ISBN13:9780826434753
Release Date:December 2011
Publisher:Continuum
Length:272 Pages
Weight:1.23 lbs.
Dimensions:0.6" x 6.1" x 9.2"
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