Charmides

Charmides is a philosophical dialogue written by the ancient Greek philosopher Plato. The dialogue takes place in Athens during the Peloponnesian War and centers around the character of Charmides, a young and handsome nobleman. The dialogue begins with Charmides' cousin, Critias, urging him to attend a gathering of intellectuals where he can learn about the nature of wisdom and virtue.At the gathering, Socrates engages Charmides in a discussion about the meaning of temperance or self-control. Socrates questions Charmides' understanding of the concept and challenges him to define it. The dialogue then shifts to a discussion of the nature of knowledge and how it relates to virtue.As the dialogue progresses, Socrates becomes increasingly skeptical of Charmides' claims to wisdom and virtue. He suggests that Charmides may not be truly virtuous, as he lacks self-knowledge and is unable to define temperance. The dialogue ends with Socrates proposing a test of Charmides' self-control, which he ultimately fails.Overall, Charmides is a thought-provoking exploration of the nature of virtue and self-knowledge. Through Socrates' questioning and the character of Charmides, Plato raises important questions about the relationship between wisdom and virtue, and the importance of self-awareness in achieving true virtue.Very well, he said; then I will call him; and turning to the attendant, he said, Call Charmides, and tell him that I want him to come and see a physician about the illness of which he spoke to me the day before yesterday. Then again addressing me, he added: He has been complaining lately of having a headache when he rises in the morning: now why should you not make him believe that you know a cure for the headache?This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.