Cover of Symposium

Symposium

by Plato

First published
1875
Reading level
Plain English
Price
Free

About the book

"Symposium" by Plato is a Socratic dialogue written between 385-370 BC. At a banquet in ancient Athens, notable figures including Socrates, Alcibiades, and Aristophanes engage in a contest of speeches praising Eros, the god of love. Each man offers his perspective on love's nature and power—from inspiring battlefield courage to transcending earthly desire. Through conflicting ideas and shifting viewpoints, the dialogue explores love's deepest meanings while showcasing both philosophical depth and literary artistry.

  • Classical literature
  • Socrates, 470 BC-399 BC
  • Philosophy, Ancient
  • Love

Updated September 2026. Public domain in the USA. Text and summary from Project Gutenberg eBook #1600. Symposium on Wikipedia.

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