In Plato’s Symposium, the form of the dialogue is a very important factor in defining love and explaining all of its characteristics. When the conversation begins, Plato establishes the setting, by showing us that the men are situated in a way that influences the flow of conversation. Then, one by one, each man gives his take on what he believes the true meaning of love is. As each man speaks, they either criticize the ideas proposed before them, or add on to the ideas, and this collection of speeches eventually allows the men to arrive at the very true meaning which is stated by Socrates. Also, Plato arranged the order of the men in such a way that as the speeches went on, the speakers were more philosophical, especially with Socrates being the last one to comment on the previous speeches and finally presents his ideas. Although for the most part the Symposium was very dramatic and climatic as the speeches progressed, there were also various comedic episodes that made Plato’s work very enjoyable to read.
2 thoughts on “Consider how the form of the dialogue functions in Plato’s Symposium, apparently an inquiry into the nature of love.”
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I agree with you that in Plato’s Symposium, the form of the dialogue is made between the speakers in ascending order. Thus, each speech takes us closer to understanding the true nature of love. Also, I read the whole Plato and it’s interesting to see how in Symposium, Socrates admits other person’s ideas and points of view, for example relating Diotima and her idea of Love.
I agree with you on you statement regarding the order of which the speakers present their own idea of love. The form of dialog, which the men in question are having, is indeed important for the conversation to continue and it does get more philosophical the more they talk about the subject. Socrates thoughts on the others perception of love, as well as his own idea of it weighs heavily and to the men who are having this conversation, as well as to the readers of the Symposium, he is the one who has the answers.