Plato used an interesting blend of sarcasm, philosophical thought, historical views, and references to the Gods to explore the meaning of love in the “Symposium”. Taking the form of a dialogue during a dinner and night of drinking in honor of Agathon; they each took turns presenting their meanings of love starting with Pausanias. Plato utilized the symposium form to allow each of the speakers to offer their own interpretations of the nature of love, build on aspects of the previous speaker’s interpretation, and discuss the philosophical meaning behind their ideas. This series of dialogues throughout the night was successful in creating a general sense of what was believed to be the nature of love during that era, some of which can still be drawn upon and is relevant today. For example, the distinction Pausanias made between the two types of love, heavenly and common—sexual desire versus virtue.
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I thought it was interesting that you analyzed the structure of Plato’s symposium in how it allowed him to express differing views on love. In addition, I think that this use of structure made his multiple views on love more evident than Catullus, for example. Catullus’ viewpoint had a dual aspect within that was to some extent implied by the way he talked about his relationship with Lesbia, so that may not have been evident to some readers. On the other hand, the symposium structure of Plato’s writing definitely highlighted his multifaceted perception of love.