Plato, Republic, from X - Book Report/Review Example

s In book X of The Republic, Socrates turns to the question regarding poetry and poses arguments convincingly concerning why they are perceived as dangerous for the city. Firstly, these poets tend to wrongly believe that they know everything while in reality they are ignorant. Since these poets present images and concepts far from reality, they can be attributed as perverted souls. Secondly, the images that these poets betray are often the worst form of soul, thereby neglecting the virtuous part of the soul; which evidently diverts the energy from rationality.

Also, poetry tends to inspire humans to sympathize with the aggrieved humans in life. Yet, Socrates regrets the banishment of poetry. In addition, Socrates argues for the immortality of the soul in this book, which implies that injustices can`t destroy the soul. (Ferguson 19-20)Therefore, in this book where Plato tends to confront the tradition poetic education with philosophical education, he presents convincing arguments to fight his case. He has justified philosophy with much relevance and vigor, and the reference to poets further adds flavor to his writings.

However, in this book Adeimantus and Glaucon refer to justice without referring to rewards and punishments factor; which implies that the philosophical virtue is distinct from the virtue appealed by a normal citizen. Thus, how Plato has made an immense distinction between the two while explaining the reward cycles (also punishment cycles) which follow justice and even un-justice is a point which needs thorough understanding to be verified. Yet, a holistic analysis of the work proves to be of much value to ethics, morality and even philosophy and thus must be analyzed accurately.

Works Cited:Plato, , and John Ferguson. Republic Book X. Letchworth: Bradda, 1978. Print.