Abstract

The subject of my paper is the explanation of Plato’s attitude in Republic on three lines taken from Odyssey. In one case Plato rejects these lines, because they should not be heard by children or free men, while in another case he repeats them as a perfect example of illustrating philosopher’s feelings. My purpose is to show that this attitude is not ambiguous; it is compatible with Plato’s doctrines and a good example of the importance that the context plays whenever Plato interprets a poem.