Bibliograph

The search for Atlantis, a history of Plato's ideal state, Steve P. Kershaw

Type

Label

The search for Atlantis, a history of Plato's ideal state, Steve P. Kershaw

Language

eng

Bibliography note

Includes bibliographical references (pages 349-408) and index

Illustrations

maps

Index

index present

Literary Form

non fiction

Main title

The search for Atlantis

Nature of contents

bibliography

Oclc number

1023535927

Responsibility statement

Steve P. Kershaw

Sub title

a history of Plato's ideal state

Summary

The Atlantis story remains one of the most haunting and enigmatic tales from antiquity, and one that still resonates very deeply with the modern imagination. But where did Atlantis come from, what was it like, and where did it go to? Atlantis was first introduced by the Greek philosopher Plato in the fourth century BC. As he discusses about the origins of life, the universe and humanity, the great thinker puts forward a stunning description of Atlantis--an island paradise with an ideal society. But the Atlanteans soon degenerate and become imperialist aggressors: they choose to fight against antediluvian Athens, which heroically repels their mighty forces, before a cataclysmic natural disaster destroys the warring states. Plato's dialogues appear remarkably prescient today. Not because they invite a search for a mysterious lost continent, but because of their warnings about the pernicious effects of wealth and power on a ruling class: Atlantis-style luxury, excess, corruption, and imperialism can lead only to decay and disaster. This ever-important tale should be prescribed reading for every political leader. Plato's tale of a great empire that sank beneath the waves has sparked thousands of years of debate over whether Atlantis really existed. But did Plato mean his tale as history--or just as a parable to help illustrate his philosophy?

Classification