JOURNAL ARTICLE

Popularization or occlusion of truth in the Platonic myths: Plutarch, Numenius, and Maximus of Tyre.

  • Published In: Bulletin of the Institute of Classical Studies, 2023, v. 66, n. 1. P. 15 1 of 3

  • Database: Humanities Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Hilton, Collin Miles 3 of 3

Abstract

The article examines the paradoxical role of myth in Platonic philosophy, focusing on the differing responses of Plutarch of Chaeronea, Numenius of Apamea, and Maximus of Tyre to Plato's use of mythic narratives. Plutarch defends myth as a pedagogical tool that popularizes philosophy by making complex ideas accessible and pleasurable to a broad audience, including the young and uneducated. In contrast, Numenius views myth as a pious concealment that intentionally obscures philosophical truths from the uninitiated, requiring allegorical interpretation to uncover deeper meanings. Maximus of Tyre integrates both perspectives, arguing that myth simultaneously popularizes philosophy through its engaging form and occludes sacred truths appropriately, thus serving both educational and esoteric functions. Their debates reflect early Imperial Platonists' growing interest in hermeneutics and literary theory concerning the function and interpretation of myth in philosophical discourse.

Additional Information

  • Source:Bulletin of the Institute of Classical Studies. 2023/06, Vol. 66, Issue 1, p15
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Literature and Writing
  • Publication Date:2023
  • ISSN:00760730
  • DOI:10.1093/bics/qbad007
  • Accession Number:171962212
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