Abstract
Abstract This chapter begins with Socrates' account of the nature of eros. The first part of the chapter explores Socrates' account of eros as an intermediate psychological state. The desire for beautiful and good things confronts us with something beautiful and good that our mortal natures lack (an experience of aporia), and yet we awaken a more than human ability to transcend that nature and to strive towards a divine state of possession (euporia). The second part of the chapter explores Socrates' claim that we desire the good and beautiful things we lack in more detail. Socrates singles out wisdom as one of the most beautiful things, and goes on to sketch an account of how eros' nature manifests itself in the pursuit of wisdom. The chapter concludes by arguing that eros' intermediate nature, as manifested in the pursuit of wisdom in particular, is exemplified in the behaviour of Socrates and his alter ego Diotima at this symposium.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
