Select Passages Illustrating Neoplatonism

'Select Passages Illustrating Neoplatonism' is an essential anthology compiled by the renowned scholar E. R. Dodds, designed to provide a comprehensive overview of one of the most influential philosophical movements of late antiquity. Neoplatonism, which emerged in the 3rd century AD, sought to synthesize and expand upon the teachings of Plato, exerting a profound impact on Western mysticism, Christian theology, and Renaissance thought.This collection features carefully curated excerpts from the works of key figures such as Plotinus, Porphyry, Iamblichus, and Proclus. Through these primary sources, the volume explores central Neoplatonic concepts, including the nature of the One, the emanation of the Intellect and the Soul, and the human journey toward spiritual union with the divine. Dodds provides expert guidance, framing these difficult texts within their historical and intellectual contexts.Ideal for students of ancient philosophy, classics, and religious studies, 'Select Passages Illustrating Neoplatonism' remains a foundational resource for understanding the complexities of Hellenistic metaphysics. It offers a clear window into the rigorous dialectic and mystical aspirations that defined the school, making the profound insights of the Neoplatonists accessible to a modern audience.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.