The Symposium by Xenophon
page 88 of 102 (86%)
page 88 of 102 (86%)
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[43] Lit. "by Aphrodite." Cf. Plat. "Phaedr." 240, "But the lover
. . . when he is drunk" (Jowett); "Symp." 214 C. Wherefore it is no marvel if, beholding, there springs up in his breast the bitterest contempt and scorn for such a lover. Search and you shall find that nothing harsh was ever yet engendered by attachment based on moral qualities; whilst shameless intercourse, time out of mind, has been the source of countless hateful and unhallowed deeds.[44] [44] Zeune cf. Ael. "V. H." viii. 9, re Archelaus king of Macedon, concerning whom Aristotle, "Pol." v. 10. 1311 B: "Many conspiracies have originated in shameful attempts made by sovereigns on the persons of their subjects. Such was the attack of Crataeus upon Archelaus," etc. (Jowett). I have next to show that the society of him whose love is of the body, not the soul, is in itself illiberal. The true educator who trains another in the path of virtue, who will teach us excellence, whether of speech or conduct,[45] may well be honoured, even as Cheiron and Phoenix[46] were honoured by Achilles. But what can he expect, who stretches forth an eager hand to clutch the body, save to be treated[47] as a beggar? That is his character; for ever cringing and petitioning a kiss, or some other soft caress,[48] this sorry suitor dogs his victims. [45] Phoenix addresses Achilles, "Il." ix. 443: {muthon te reter' emenai, prektera te ergon} |
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