Essentials of the "Principles of the State" by Wang Zhi: A Collection of Commentaries by Plato

Author: Friedl?nder, Leo; Krigel, [US]
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-07-01
Features: The translation of titles in Plato's works requires both uniformity and revision. In this edition, I have intentionally attempted some translations that we believe are more appropriate—such as "Laws" instead of "Laws," and "Republic" instead of "Statesman" or "The Republic." These translations are not without controversy; on the contrary, they are precisely intended to provoke debate. To understand what Plato is saying, one must first start with how he says it. How one says something and what one says cannot be separated. Plato's works are mostly dramatic, either performative or narrative. Only by reenacting or narrating Plato's works can one approach what Plato intended to say—in other words, only by understanding Plato's way is it possible to comprehend Plato. The three essays collected here all interpret the "Republic" by retelling Plato's "Republic," and the authors are all representative figures.