Seth Benardete Books

The commentary explores the complex interplay between characters and themes in Sophocles' Antigone, particularly in light of Hegel's interpretation. It emphasizes the significance of secondary characters like Haemon, Tiresias, and the guard, highlighting how their roles illuminate Antigone's struggle. The Chorus's inconsistent reflections reveal deeper insights into Antigone's character, positioning her as a pivotal figure often overlooked. Additionally, it contrasts the sacrifices of Megareus and Eurydice, underscoring the divergent themes of motherhood and anti-generation embodied by Antigone.

Exploring the relationship between philosophy and poetry, this interpretation of the Odyssey by Seth Benardete posits that Homer may have been the first to engage in Platonic thought. The work delves into the interplay between rationality and irrationality within human nature, offering a unique perspective on the epic's themes and its philosophical implications.

The examination of Herodotus' narrative reveals his philosophical intentions and storytelling methods, emphasizing the significance of his accounts, particularly of Egypt. This analysis connects the foundational themes of Greek identity and understanding to his exploration of Persia, Scythia, and Libya, which form the core of his inquiries. These insights illuminate the broader context of the Persian Wars, showcasing how Herodotus' work serves as a crucial document for understanding pre-Socratic philosophy and the cultural landscape of his time.

Plato's final work offers practical guidelines for establishing political order, contrasting with the abstract ideals of the Republic. Seth Benardete's analysis delves into the twelve books of the Laws, exploring themes such as theology, justice, and education. He highlights the connection between law and music, demonstrating how various artistic forms bridge reason and society in Plato's thought. Additionally, Benardete reveals the hidden ontological aspects of the dialogue, contributing significantly to the understanding of Platonic philosophy.

Focusing on the intricacies of tragedy, this new translation of Aristotle's On Poetics by Seth Benardete and Michael Davis aims to capture the depth of Aristotle's original text. The translators emphasize the importance of a literal interpretation, revealing the complexities and nuances in Aristotle's arguments. This work not only explores the composition of tragedy but also stands out as a significant literary piece, inviting readers to reconsider their understanding of its themes and intentions.

This volume brings together Seth Benardete’s studies of Hesiod, Homer, and Greek tragedy, eleven Platonic dialogues, and Aristotle’s Metaphysics. The Argument of the Action spans four decades of Seth Benardete’s work, documenting its impressive range. Benardete’s philosophic reading of the poets and his poetic reading of the philosophers share a common ground, guided by the key he found in the Platonic dialogue: probing the meaning of speeches embedded in deeds, he uncovers the unifying intention of the work by tracing the way it unfolds through a movement of its own. Benardete’s original interpretations of the classics are the fruit of this discovery of the “argument of the action.”

Plato's Symposium - translated here, and with a commentary - is arguably one of the greatest works on the nature of love ever written. It recounts a drinking party following an evening meal, where the guests include Aristophanes, Alcibiades and Socrates. The revellers discuss a variety of topics. schovat popis