Sign-In
Cart
Symposium: A Banquet of Perspectives - Xenophon's Dialogue on Eros, Friendship, and the Deeds of Socrates (Deluxe Hardbound Edition)
Hardcover
Series: Library of Alexandria, Book 388
ISBN13: 9781806293414
Publisher: Library of Alexandria
Published: Jul 1 2025
Pages: 90
Weight: 0.46
Height: 0.38 Width: 5.00 Depth: 8.00
Language: English
Symposium by Xenophon offers a unique and illuminating view of Socrates-not as the somber philosopher of the courtroom, but as a witty, wise guest at a festive Athenian dinner party.
In this dialogue, Socrates joins a group of prominent citizens who take turns giving speeches in praise of their personal virtues and ideals. What unfolds is a tapestry of ancient values, individual pride, gentle satire, and ultimately, a vision of philosophy that belongs not only in the academy-but also at the dinner table.
This modern translation breathes new life into Xenophon's elegant and approachable prose, revealing the subtle power of philosophy expressed through conversation, humor, and human connection.
What You'll Discover in This Modern Translation:
- An Alternative Symposium to Plato's
- Experience Xenophon's contrasting and down-to-earth portrayal of Socrates in a more personal and relaxed setting.
- Timeless Themes of Love and Virtue
- Explore perspectives on eros, friendship, and moral excellence from each guest's unique point of view.
- A Glimpse into Athenian Culture and Banquet Life
- Learn how the ancient Greeks mixed festivity with philosophical reflection-and why Socrates thrived in both.
- A Lively, Accessible Translation
- Crafted for today's reader while remaining faithful to the tone and character of the original Greek.
- A Rare Look at Socratic Humor and Humanity
- Discover Socrates not only as a moral teacher but also as a humorous and insightful companion.
Whether you're interested in philosophy, classical literature, or simply wish to share in the company of wise and witty minds, Symposium by Xenophon offers an unforgettable seat at the table. Celebrate wisdom with laughter-and let the dialogue begin.
Also from
Xenophon
The Education of Cyrus. Translated from the Greek of Xenophon
Melian, Stawell Florence
Xenophon
Graham, Dakyns Henry
Hardcover
Memorabilia (Royal Collector's Edition) (Case Laminate Hardcover with Jacket)
Dakyns, Henry Graham
Xenophon
Hardcover
Memorabilia of Sokrates: Translated From the Text of Raphael Kühner. With Notes and Prolegomena
Xenophon
Paperback
Hellenica (Royal Collector's Edition) (Annotated) (Case Laminate Hardcover with Jacket)
Xenophon
Hardcover
Memorabilia of Sokrates: Translated From the Text of Raphael Kühner. With Notes and Prolegomena
Xenophon
Hardcover
Xenophon's ausgewaehlte Schriften, erste Abtheilung, Die Kyropädie
Xenophon
1802-1857, Walz Christian
Paperback
The Education of Cyrus. Translated From the Greek of Xenophon
Xenophon
Graham, Dakyns Henry
Melian, Stawell Florence
Paperback
The Education of Cyrus. Translated From the Greek of Xenophon
Xenophon
Graham, Dakyns Henry
Melian, Stawell Florence
Hardcover
Anabasis, The March Up Country: The Epic Story of Cyrus and the Ancient Greek Military's Quest to Regain the Persian Empire's Throne (Hardcover)
Dakyns, Henry Graham
Xenophon
Hardcover
Anabasis, The March Up Country: The Epic Story of Cyrus and the Ancient Greek Military's Quest to Regain the Persian Empire's Throne
Dakyns, Henry Graham
Xenophon
Paperback
Also in
General Fiction
Elizabeth Spencer: Novels & Stories (Loa #344): The Voice at the Back Door / The Light in the Piazza / Knights and Dragons / Stories
Spencer, Elizabeth
Hardcover
Anniversaries, Volume 2: From a Year in the Life of Gesine Cresspahl, April 1968-August 1968
Johnson, Uwe
Paperback
Johnny Panic and the Bible of Dreams: Short Stories, Prose, and Diary Excerpts
Plath, Sylvia
Paperback
Selected Writings: Robert Musil: Young Torless, Three Women, the Perfecting of a Love, and Other Writings
Agee, Joel
Musil, Robert
Paperback