Library of Alexandria

What if beauty isn't in the eye of the beholder-but in something far greater and eternal?

In Hippias Major, Plato presents a searching dialogue between Socrates and the sophist Hippias as they tackle one of philosophy's most enduring questions: what is beauty? Through sharp questioning and humorous rebuttals, Socrates dismantles superficial answers and pushes toward a deeper, universal definition of beauty-one that transcends physical appearance and cultural norms.

This modern translation breathes new life into a deceptively simple yet intellectually rich text. By preserving the clarity and spirit of the original, it offers today's readers a fresh opportunity to grapple with the philosophical roots of aesthetics, truth, and knowledge.

What You'll Discover in This Modern Translation:

• The First Known Philosophical Dialogue on Beauty - Explore how Plato frames aesthetics not just as art appreciation, but as a key to understanding universal truth.
• Socrates vs. the Sophists - Watch Socrates expose the contradictions in Hippias's confident definitions of beauty.
• A Study in Dialectical Method - Learn how Plato's approach to questioning can be applied to modern critical thinking and personal inquiry.
• A Modern, Reader-Friendly Translation - Carefully adapted for clarity and insight while remaining faithful to Plato's philosophical essence.
• Reflections on the Nature of Truth and Perception - Discover why the definition of beauty matters far beyond appearances-in how we live, judge, and aspire.

Whether you're interested in aesthetics, ancient philosophy, or the timeless quest for truth, Hippias Major is a foundational text that continues to spark wonder and debate. Step into the dialogue and explore the meaning behind what we call "beautiful."