The Symposium
Ranked #2 in Plato, Ranked #8 in Greek — see more rankings.
A fascinating discussion on sex, gender, and human instincts, as relevant today as ever.
In the course of a lively drinking party, a group of Athenian intellectuals exchange views on eros, or desire. From their conversation emerges a series of subtle reflections on gender roles, sex in society and the sublimation of basic human instincts. The discussion culminates in a radical challenge to conventional views by Plato's mentor, Socrates, who advocates transcendence through spiritual love. The Symposium is a deft interweaving of different viewpoints and ideas about the nature of... more
In the course of a lively drinking party, a group of Athenian intellectuals exchange views on eros, or desire. From their conversation emerges a series of subtle reflections on gender roles, sex in society and the sublimation of basic human instincts. The discussion culminates in a radical challenge to conventional views by Plato's mentor, Socrates, who advocates transcendence through spiritual love. The Symposium is a deft interweaving of different viewpoints and ideas about the nature of... more
Reviews and Recommendations
We've comprehensively compiled reviews of The Symposium from the world's leading experts.
Bryan Callen [Bryan Callen recommended this book on the podcast "The Tim Ferriss Show".] (Source)
Edward Skidelsky Plato is the founding figure in the Western philosophical tradition and the Symposium is one of his most charming books – you can read it like a novel. (Source)
Rankings by Category
The Symposium is ranked in the following categories:
- #23 in Aesthetics
- #13 in Ancient
- #11 in Ancient Greece
- #16 in Antiques
- #47 in Classical
- #39 in Free Will
- #8 in Philosopher
- #23 in Philosophy
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