In standard accounts of Neoplatonic philosophy, the role of Socrates has often been downplayed, to a point that has brought interpreters to speak of a « Platonismus ohne Sokrates », to cite a famous definition. Nevertheless, Plato’s master, a prominent figure in the dialogues, is often subjected in the commentaries to a form of idealisation that recognises in him the image of intermediary realities between mankind and the divine. A question thus arises: could we trace a ‘sacralisation’ of Socrates in later Neoplatonism, in harmony with the presence of an established cult of Socrates such as we see in late-antique Athens? This article investigates the strategies of representation of Socrates in the commentaries, between literary reception and theological speculation.
Le divin Socrate. Autorité et « sacralisation » de Socrate dans le néoplatonisme tardif
DONATO M
2021-01-01
Abstract
In standard accounts of Neoplatonic philosophy, the role of Socrates has often been downplayed, to a point that has brought interpreters to speak of a « Platonismus ohne Sokrates », to cite a famous definition. Nevertheless, Plato’s master, a prominent figure in the dialogues, is often subjected in the commentaries to a form of idealisation that recognises in him the image of intermediary realities between mankind and the divine. A question thus arises: could we trace a ‘sacralisation’ of Socrates in later Neoplatonism, in harmony with the presence of an established cult of Socrates such as we see in late-antique Athens? This article investigates the strategies of representation of Socrates in the commentaries, between literary reception and theological speculation.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
