Unveiling the Masterpiece – Phaedrus Oxford World Classics: A Review by Robin Waterfield

Ancient Greece, known for its rich cultural and philosophical legacy, continues to inspire and captivate readers from around the world. One such timeless masterpiece that has stood the test of time is the philosophical dialogue "Phaedrus" by Plato. In this article, we delve into the depths of this incredible work, exploring its profound ideas and highlighting the remarkable Oxford World Classics edition, meticulously translated and annotated by Robin Waterfield.

Unlocking the Essence of "Phaedrus"

"Phaedrus" explores themes of love, rhetoric, and the art of communication. Set around a conversation between Socrates and Phaedrus, the dialogue delves into the nature of love and the motives behind human behavior. As Waterfield, an acclaimed translator and Platonist, explains, "Phaedrus" is a thought-provoking piece that showcases Plato's insightful exploration of human psychology.

Waterfield's translation skillfully captures the nuances and beauty of Plato's original Greek text, transporting readers to ancient times and allowing them to immerse themselves in the world of philosophical discourse. The careful annotations and footnotes provided throughout the edition offer invaluable insights, making complex concepts more accessible to a wide range of readers.

Phaedrus (Oxford World's Classics)

by Robin Waterfield(1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

FREE

Expertly Translated and Annotated

Robin Waterfield's translation of "Phaedrus" stands out for its remarkable clarity and fluency. Apart from carefully capturing the essence of each dialogue, Waterfield's interpretation allows readers to experience the philosophical debates with great clarity, ensuring that Plato's intricate ideas are not lost in translation.

The rich annotations provided by Waterfield further enhance the reading experience. Each annotation provides valuable context, explains unfamiliar terms, and offers critical analysis, enabling readers to truly appreciate the profound ideas presented in "Phaedrus." With insightful commentary on key philosophical concepts and literary references, Waterfield ensures that even readers new to Plato's work can fully engage with the text.

A Captivating Edition Worth Exploring

The Oxford World Classics edition of "Phaedrus" is a treasure trove for any lover of philosophy or classical literature. With its striking cover and the promise of invaluable scholarly insights, this edition is sure to be a centerpiece in any bibliophile's collection. Whether you are a student, an academic, or a curious individual seeking intellectual stimulation, the Oxford World Classics edition will undoubtedly enrich your understanding of Ancient Greek philosophy.

Waterfield's translation and annotations bring "Phaedrus" to life, allowing readers to join the timeless conversation between Socrates and Phaedrus. The compelling narrative and thought-provoking content make this edition a true delight to read, providing readers with an opportunity to explore the depths of ancient wisdom and broaden their intellectual horizons.

The Power of Ancient Wisdom

"Phaedrus" not only serves as a remarkable philosophical treatise but also as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of literature. Waterfield's translation seamlessly bridges the gap between ancient Greece and the modern world, reminding us of the timeless relevance and significance of Plato's ideas. Philosophical ideas explored within the pages of "Phaedrus" continue to resonate today, and this edition ensures that their impact will be felt for generations to come.

The Oxford World Classics edition of "Phaedrus," skillfully translated and extensively annotated by Robin Waterfield, offers an exceptional reading experience. This captivating edition not only allows readers to immerse themselves in the world of Ancient Greek philosophy but also presents profound insights into human nature, the art of rhetoric, and the power of love.

So, grab a copy of Phaedrus Oxford World Classics, embrace the wisdom of Plato, and embark on a captivating journey that will expand your mind and leave a lasting imprint on your soul.

Phaedrus (Oxford World's Classics)

by Robin Waterfield(1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

FREE

'Some of our greatest blessings come from madness

Phaedrus is widely recognized as one of Plato's most profound and beautiful works. It takes the form of a dialogue between Socrates and Phaedrus and its ostensible subject is love, especially homoerotic love. Socrates reveals it to be a kind of divine madness that can allow our souls to grow wings and soar to their greatest heights. Then the conversation changes direction and turns to a discussion of rhetoric, which must be based on truth passionately sought, thus allying it to
philosophy. The dialogue closes by denigrating the value of the written word in any context, compared to the living teaching of a Socratic philosopher.

The shifts of topic and register have given rise to doubts about the unity of the dialogue, doubts which are addressed in the to this volume. Full explanatory notes also elucidate issues throughout the dialogue that might puzzle a modern reader.

ABOUT THE SERIES: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the widest range of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert s by leading authorities, helpful notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.