Philosopher-Kings of Antiquity [Paperback]

One of the most celebrated of Plato's ideas was that if human society was ever to function successfully then philosophers would need to become kings, or kings philosophers. In a perfect state, therefore, philosophic wisdom should be wedded to political power.

In antiquity, who were or aspired to be philosopher-kings? What was their understanding of wisdom and the limits of knowledge? What influence have they had on periods beyond antiquity? This volume focuses on Plato and his contemporaries; Alexander the Great and his Hellenistic successors; Marcus Aurelius and the good emperors'; Moses, Solomon and early Hebrew leaders; and Julian the Apostate, the last of the pagans. In conclusion it looks at the re-emergence of the Platonic ideal in important moments of European history, such as the Enlightenment. The theme of the philosopher-king is significant for Greco-Roman antiquity as a whole, and this work is
unique in detailing the development of an idea through major periods of Greek and Roman history, and beyond.

William Desmondis a Professor of Philosophy at the National University of Ireland, Maynooth. His book The Greek Praise of Poverty: Origins of Ancient Cynicism (Notre Dame University Press) won the National University of Ireland Centennial Prize in 2008.

1: Fundamental Themes - Kingship and Wisdom
2: Plato's Dream
3: From Plato to Plutarch
4: Marcus Aurelius, Stoic-Emperor
5: Julian the Apostate
6: From Moses to Modernity