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This book rethinks Plato’s creation and use of myth by drawing on theories and methods from myth studies, religious studies, literary theory and related fields. Individual myths function differently depending on cultural practice, religious context or literary tradition, and this interdisciplinary study merges new perspectives in Plato studies with recent scholarship and theories pertaining to myth. Significant overlaps exist between prominent modern theories of myth and attitudes and approaches in studies of Plato’s myths. Considering recent developments in myth studies, thisbook asks new questions about the evaluation of myth in Plato. Its appreciation of the historical conditions shaping and directing the study of Plato’s myths opens deeper philosophical questions about the relationship between philosophy and myth and the relevance of myth studies to philosophical debates. It also extends the discussion to address philosophical questions and perspectives on the distinction between argument and narrative. 

DOI: 10.1057/978-1-137-58044-3

Full citation:

Myth and philosophy on stage

Tofighian Omid

1-32

Mutual scaffolding

Tofighian Omid

33-52

Myth and instruction

Tofighian Omid

55-81

Myth and partnership

Tofighian Omid

83-109

Myth and regulation

Tofighian Omid

111-141

Myth and transition

Tofighian Omid

143-172

The atlantis myth and cultural identity

Tofighian Omid

173-203

Where does myth belong?

Tofighian Omid

205-218