The Republic (Penguin Classics)

The classic translation of the cornerstone work of western philosophy

Plato's Republic is widely acknowledged as one of the most influential works in the history of philosophy. Presented in the form of a dialogue between Socrates and three different interlocutors, it explores profound and timeless questions about society and the individual.

Key Themes and Questions:

• The perfect community: What would an ideal society look like?
• The ideal individual: What qualities define the best version of a person?
• Fundamental inquiries:
  • What is goodness?
  • What is reality?
  • What is knowledge?
  • What is the purpose of education?

With remarkable lucidity and the deft use of allegory, Plato presents a vision of a state bound by harmony and ruled by "philosopher kings."

Translated by DESMOND LEE with an Introduction by MELISSA LANE.