Eschine Di Sfetto. Tutte le Testimonianze

About this book

This book contains a collection of Aeschines of Sphettus fragments, a first Italian translation of all testimonies, and a running philological commentary. The collection also includes a set of new testimonies which contribute to a deeper understanding of Aeschines dialogues. Greek texts are introduced by a historical-philosophical essay which aims to define the role and highlight the relevance of Aeschines? account as a source in Socratic philosophy. It deals with a number of issues regarding the philosopher?s biography and writings, such as his relationship with Socrates and Socratic heritage, his rhetorical activity and the problem of the authenticity of the dialogues. It also attempts to reconstruct the structure and philosophical content of the seven works ascribed to Aeschines. The book aims to place Aeschines? account within the wider framework of ancient Socratic literature. Thus, special attention is paid to parallels between Aeschines? dialogues and other sources on Socrates, namely Plato, Xenophon and Antisthenes. Regarding the Alcibiades and the Aspasia, it raises raises the issue of the role played by eros in Socrates? pedagogical activity. It also addresses some topoi of Socratic dialogues such as the role of wealth, the relationship between virtue and knlowledge and the care of the self.