The final book of Plato’s Republic is a profoundly philosophical literary masterpiece defining politics. The central problem identified in the book is justice leading the reader to start reassessing their values and points of view. Upon reading Republic, it is clear that Plato intends to establish the picture that justice exists not only through a psychological prism but also as a behavioral pattern. Further, the essay will review the Book X of Republic, focusing on the main themes that have impressed and impacted me.
The first impressive philosophical postulate stated in the Book X of Republic is Socrates’ theory of the three levels in the world at which phenomena occur. The author talks about God on the first level, creating the bed as an idea, carpenter imitating God’s vision of making the same bed, and the poet or painter imitating the carpenter’s bed (Plato, 375 B.C.). It is a fundamental theory defining society, and with the theme continuing throughout the book, the reader reconceptualizes their place and purpose in the community. Personally, I realized that there are creators and imitators, where it is essential to become the person of influence who will create and lead people after, to accomplish rather than think of accomplishments.
Another unique theme from Book X is Socrates’ theory about the afterlife and reward. He states that the primary rewards of a person come only in the afterlife, giving an example of El – a soldier who came back to life (Plato, 375 B.C.). The philosopher argues that the soul is indestructible by evil, living on further after the body’s death. Such statement makes me reconsider death, and the theory of the soul being immortal led me to looking at this inevitable event from another point of view.
Thus, Republic. Book X presents several philosophical themes that push the reader to reconsider certain fundamental concepts, including the purpose and goal of life and death. Upon reading and further deepening my knowledge and critical thinking skills, the influence of Plato’s writing is tremendous, significantly expanding my view on the most vital concept – life and its purpose. Each person is responsible for their own choice in life, thus defining their future and just or unjust living, being a creator or the imitator.
Reference
Plato. (375 B.C.). The Republic. MIT. Web.