Ion by Plato

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About this eBook

Author Plato, 428? BCE-348? BCE
Translator Jowett, Benjamin, 1817-1893
Title Ion
Note Wikipedia page about this book: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ion_(dialogue)
Note Reading ease score: 73.2 (7th grade). Fairly easy to read.
Credits Produced by Sue Asscher, and David Widger
Summary "Ion" by Plato is a Socratic dialogue that belongs to the genre of philosophical literature, dating back to the classical period of Ancient Greece. The work showcases a conversation between Socrates and Ion, a rhapsode who specializes in interpreting the works of Homer. The central theme of "Ion" revolves around the nature of inspiration in poetry and the intellectual capabilities of poets versus those who analyze their work. In this short dialogue, Socrates engages Ion in a discussion about his ability to interpret Homeric poetry. Ion asserts that he speaks beautifully about Homer but admits to having no knowledge of other poets. Socrates challenges Ion’s claims, leading him to recognize that his talent for interpreting Homer arises not from artistic knowledge but from divine inspiration. Through a metaphorical discussion, Socrates describes poets and rhapsodes as being similar to a chain of magnets, indicating that true creativity and expression in poetry come from a higher source. In the end, Socrates suggests that Ion is not a skilled artist but rather inspired, leaving the question of artistic knowledge and the source of creativity open for reflection. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Language English
LoC Class PA: Language and Literatures: Classical Languages and Literature
Subject Classical literature
Subject Homer. Iliad
Subject Poetics -- History -- To 1500
Subject Aesthetics, Ancient
Category Text
EBook-No. 1635
Release Date
Most Recently Updated Jan 16, 2013
Copyright Status Public domain in the USA.
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