About the book
The ancient view that Plato and Xenophon were rivals at least had the merit of allowing them to respond to each other; in modern times, the view that Plato wrote first eliminates the possibility of an exchange between the only two Socratics whose writings are preserved intact. Challenging the chronological assumptions on which Plato's across-the-board priority currently rests, the purpose of The Relay Race of Virtue is to show that Plato and Xenophon were responding to each other and that we can gain a greater appreciation for both by recognizing the back-and-forth nature of their friendly dialogue. Instead of regarding Xenophon as Plato's inept copyist, William H. F. Altman presents him as first blazing the trail for his fellow Socratic and then learning from Plato in return. By emphasizing \"Plato's Debts to Xenophon,\" Altman is charitable to both, justifying Socrates' belief (Memorabilia 1.2.8) \"that those of his companions who adopted his principles of conduct would throughout life be good friends to him and to each other.\"
Editions of The Relay Race of Virtue
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9781438490915
- Paperback
- ISBN 9781438490922
- PDF
- ISBN 9781438490939
Read an Excerpt
The ancient view that Plato and Xenophon were rivals at least had the merit of allowing them to respond to each other; in modern times, the view that Plato wrote first eliminates the possibility of an exchange between the only two Socratics whose writings are preserved intact. Challenging the chronological assumptions on which Plato's across-the-board priority currently rests, the purpose of The Relay Race of Virtue is to show that Plato and Xenophon were responding to each other and that we can gain a greater appreciation for both by recognizing the back-and-forth nature of their friendly dialogue. Instead of regarding Xenophon as Plato's inept copyist, William H. F. Altman presents him as first blazing the trail for his fellow Socratic and then learning from Plato in return. By emphasizing \"Plato's Debts to Xenophon,\" Altman is charitable to both, justifying Socrates' belief (Memorabilia 1.2.8) \"that those of his companions who adopted his principles of conduct would throughout life be good friends to him and to each other.\"
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Relay Race of Virtue about?
The ancient view that Plato and Xenophon were rivals at least had the merit of allowing them to respond to each other; in modern times, the view that Plato wrote first eliminates the possibility of an exchange between the only two Socratics whose writings are preserved intact. Challenging the chronological assumptions on which Plato's across-the-board priority currently rests, the purpose of The Relay Race of Virtue is to show that Plato and Xenophon were responding to each other and that we can gain a greater appreciation for both by recognizing the back-and-forth nature of their friendly dialogue. Instead of regarding Xenophon as Plato's inept copyist, William H. F. Altman presents him as first blazing the trail for his fellow Socratic and then learning from Plato in return. By emphasizing \"Plato's Debts to Xenophon,\" Altman is charitable to both, justifying Socrates' belief (Memorabilia 1.2.8) \"that those of his companions who adopted his principles of conduct would throughout life be good friends to him and to each other.\"
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in The Relay Race of Virtue?
Philosophy and Religion > Philosophy > Philosophical traditions and schools of thought > Ancient Greek and Roman philosophy
Where can I read a sample of The Relay Race of Virtue?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9781438490915
How long is The Relay Race of Virtue and how many pages does it have?
The Relay Race of Virtue has 384 page(s)
Is The Relay Race of Virtue part of a series, and can it be read as a standalone?
Yes it is a part of series SUNY series in Ancient Greek Philosophy
Who is/are the Author/s of the book The Relay Race of Virtue?
William H. F. Altman
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
The Relay Race of Virtue is available as hardcover(ISBN 9781438490915) and paperback(ISBN 9781438490922) and pdf(ISBN 9781438490939)
Where can I buy The Relay Race of Virtue online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy The Relay Race of Virtue from below
Where can I buy The Relay Race of Virtue?