Συμπόσιον: Ή Περί Έρωτος

A philosophical dialogue written in the 4th century BC. The work takes place at a banquet hosted by Agathon, where notable figures like Socrates, Phaedrus, and Aristophanes share their perspectives on love (Eros). The dialogues explore various interpretations of love, moving from typical desires to a more profound philosophical understanding of its significance in human existence. The opening of the text introduces the setting of the symposium and the characters involved in the conversation, setting a festive tone filled with celebratory wine. As the guests begin their discussions, they take turns praising love through their individual philosophical lenses. Each speaker presents a different view of Eros, transitioning from a simplistic understanding of physical attraction to deeper notions, such as love's role in moral virtue, harmony in nature, and the pursuit of the ideal. Ultimately, the dialogue highlights the complexity of love, suggesting that it serves not only as a desire for beauty and goodness but as a guiding force towards understanding the divine and achieving wisdom.