The Symposium
by Plato, Christopher Gill
The Symposium by Plato, Christopher Gill holds a highly rated rating of 4.01 out of 5, based on 22.4K reader ratings. First published in -385. The book spans 131 pages.
About The Symposium
A fascinating discussion on sex, gender, and human instincts, as relevant today as ever.In the course of a lively drinking party, a group of Athenian intellectuals exchange views on eros, or desire. From their conversation emerges a series of subtle reflections on gender roles, sex in society and the sublimation of basic human instincts. The discussion culminates in a radical challenge to conventional views by Plato's mentor, Socrates, who advocates transcendence through spiritual love. The Symposium is a deft interweaving of different viewpoints and ideas about the nature of love--as a response to beauty, a cosmic force, a motive for social action and as a means of ethical education.For more than seventy years, Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world. With more than 1,700 titles, Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanced by introductions and notes by distinguished scholars and contemporary authors, as well as up-to-date translations by award-winning translators.
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Author | Plato, Christopher Gill |
| Published | -385 |
| Pages | 131 |
| Genres | Philosophy, Classics, Non-Fiction, History |
| Average Rating | 4.01 / 5.00 |
| Total Ratings | 22,413 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What genre is The Symposium?
The Symposium is categorized as Philosophy, Classics, Non-Fiction, History. Its primary genre classification is Classics.
Is The Symposium worth reading?
Based on 22.4K reader ratings, The Symposium has an average score of 4.01 out of 5.00, which is considered "Highly Rated."
How many pages is The Symposium?
The Symposium has 131 pages. It is a relatively quick read.
Who wrote The Symposium?
The Symposium was written by Plato, Christopher Gill. It was first published in -385.
What is the ISBN for The Symposium?
The ISBN-13 for The Symposium is 9780140449270.0.
Data sourced from community book ratings and reviews. Last updated: April 15, 2026
