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Kenneth James Dover

Greek Popular Morality in the Time of Plato and Aristotle

In "Greek Popular Morality in the Time of Plato and Aristotle," renowned classical scholar Kenneth J. Dover provides a comprehensive and enlightening examination of the moral values and beliefs of ancient Greeks during the Classical period. Dover, who was a professor at the University of Oxford and a fellow of the British Academy, draws on a wide range of literary and historical sources to paint a vivid picture of the moral landscape of ancient Greece. The book is divided into two main parts. The first part examines the moral attitudes and values of the general population, as reflected in popular literature, such as comedy and oratory. Dover discusses a variety of topics, including attitudes towards sex, gender roles, family, and social status. He argues that, despite the many differences between ancient Greek society and our own, there are also many similarities in the moral concerns and dilemmas that people faced. The second part of the book focuses on the moral theories of Plato and Aristotle, two of the most influential philosophers in history. Dover provides a clear and accessible explanation of their ideas, and shows how these ideas were shaped by, and in turn shaped, the moral values of their time. He also discusses the ways in which Plato and Aristotle's ideas have continued to influence moral thought and philosophy up to the present day. One of the strengths of this book is Dover's ability to bring the ancient Greek world to life, and to make the moral concerns and dilemmas of its inhabitants accessible and relevant to modern readers. He writes in a clear, engaging style, and his scholarship is always grounded in a deep understanding of the historical and cultural context of the sources he discusses. In conclusion, "Greek Popular Morality in the Time of Plato and Aristotle" is a valuable and fascinating study of the moral values and beliefs of ancient Greeks, and of the ways in which these values and beliefs continue to shape our own moral thinking. It is a must-read for anyone interested in classical studies, moral philosophy, or the history of ideas.