... ideas, and is therefore a greater love than the physical love which creates children. Plato explores and defends his view of love in the Symposium, specifically in the dialogue between Socrates and Diotima (Symposium, 204e ­ 209e). Plato first defines love by examining the lover, then uses this definition to build an abstract ... to refine this broad definition which would include as lovers those who try to attain the good by any means. The purview of love, in Plato as in common language, is restricted "to those whose enthusiasm is directed at one specific type who are described by the t...

• Word Count: 1318
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

In this paper I will discuss Aristophanes" speech on love found in Plato's Symposium. I will summarize his speech and explain the characteristics of love as Aristophanes thinks of it. I will also explain Aristophanes" definition of love, and whether or not love is an admirable ... other scientific findings regarding the origins of the human race, we cannot accept it. He does however touch on a very significant point that none of the other speakers in the Symposium have touched on. Aristophanes speaks of love and our innate social need to be with others as an attempt for unification into a wh...

• Word Count: 1564
• Approx Pages: 6
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate