Censure and Absolution of Poetry in Plato’s Republic

Abstract

Several studies have thrown light over Plato’s rejection of poetry in the Republic. At the same time, several scholars remarked the dramatic versatility the dialogues manifest. Along these lines, a source of perplexity became the inconsistency that arises from Plato’s attack to poets and the involvement of poetry in his works. Two of the most important reasons for Plato’s critique are the morally degraded value that poetry instills in audience’s soul and the pleasure the drama affords. However, Plato acknowledges that in order to enact the right values and to develop the best moral attitudes in the city poetry is really effective.After an accurate reform of dramatic style, Plato is forced to recognize the inescapable charme of poetry and admit that the pleasures of poetry cannot be simply dispensed.