Philosopher-Kings of Antiquity Contributor(s): Desmond, William (Author) |
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ISBN: 0826434754 ISBN-13: 9780826434753 Publisher: Continuum OUR PRICE: $198.00 Product Type: Hardcover - Other Formats Published: December 2011 |
Additional Information |
BISAC Categories: - Philosophy | Political - History | Ancient - General - Philosophy | History & Surveys - Ancient & Classical |
Dewey: 128.3 |
LCCN: 2011501486 |
Physical Information: 0.63" H x 6.14" W x 9.21" (1.23 lbs) 272 pages |
Themes: - Chronological Period - Ancient (To 499 A.D.) |
Descriptions, Reviews, Etc. |
Publisher Description: 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. |