Abstract

In twelve dense and detailed chapters, corresponding to the twelve chapters of the Laws, Seth Benardete provides both a commentary and interpretation of Plato’s last work. His “primary purpose... is to try to uncover its concealed ontological dimension and explain why it is concealed and how it comes to light”. Through a comparison with many of the Socratic dialogues, particularly the Republic and the Phaedrus, and with frequent reference to Greek mythology, history, tragedy, and philosophy, the author reveals layers of meaning and references that presentthe Laws, contrary to customary opinion, as a rich and philosophically provocative book.