The views of Plato on a variety of topics are typically illustrated for readers through the dialectic method, a dialogue that represents a series of questions and replies aimed at logical inquiry. So it is with the concept of love as illustrated in two of PlatoÆs dialogues, Symposium and Phaedrus. Love is the central theme of both of these dialogues that transpire in Athens, the former at a dinner party for Agathon and the latter a serene walk in the words by Phaedrus. A number of views of love are presented by each and both are responsible for introducing new conceptions of love to the world. In both Symposium and Phaedrus new conceptions of love such as platonic love and love representing the need to become complete through another person. As Wu (2003) argues, ôPlatoÆs Symposium, the first known work written specifically to explore the nature of love, caused fundamental changes in the Western way of thinking about love. One of the important themes of the Symposium is that love is based on a personÆs need to be completed by someone elseö (1). This analysis will explore each conception of love as they are revealed in the Symposium and Phaedrus.
In Symposium, we see a variety of conceptions of love presented by the mainly intoxicated guests. The views are diverse and more favorable than the conceptions of love offered in Phaedrus. Whereas the conception of love in Phaedrus is one of divine madness, a disruption of the emotional homeostasis, so-to-speak, in Symposium love is viewed as a more desirable condition. Nevertheless, the views of love expressed in Phaedrus will help develop modern notions of platonic love. The Symposium takes place at the celebration party for Agathon. Each of the guests takes a turn presenting their conception of love. Phaedrus speaks first and describes love as the oldest of the gods, something that inspires the highest good in man. It inspires the greatest courage and the ultimate sacr...