Offering more than simply an introduction to Plato's writings, these lucid essays explore the lure of philosophy for both the neophyte and seasoned scholar by presenting key philosophical dialogues and inviting readers to participate in the inquiry. Covered are such fundamental texts as The Republic, The Phaedo, and the account of Socrates' offense as presented in The Apology. Other essays compare Plato's notion of time with Einstein's, discuss how to teach Plato to undergraduates, and contend that a thoughtful text-based examination of Plato can have personal impact. An instructor's eye for telling details makes this text useful for both students of Plato and Socrates and teachers looking to more skillfully unpack the arguments presented in the classic texts.

Eva Brann is a professor at St. John's College. She is the author of Homeric Moments: Clues to Delight in Reading the Odyssey and the Iliad, The Ways of Naysaying, What, Then, Is Time?, and The World of the Imagination. She lives in Annapolis, Maryland.