Protagoras

What if virtue was just clever branding? In Protagoras, Plato delivers a rich and provocative philosophical showdown between Socrates and Protagoras-the most famous teacher of virtue in ancient Greece. Protagoras claims he can teach excellence in citizenship, morality, and leadership. Socrates, ever skeptical, demands clarity: what is virtue? Is it one thing or many? Can anyone-even a sophist-truly teach it? This extended dialogue moves with the energy of a dramatic debate, revealing key philosophical themes: the relationship between wisdom and reputation, the nature of good judgment, the role of education in shaping the soul, and the seduction of rhetorical charm. More than an intellectual contest, Protagoras is a masterclass in logic, character, and the art of questioning public authority. This modern translation stays true to the spirit of the original while offering a flowing, accessible reading experience for contemporary audiences. What You'll Discover in This Modern Translation: A Riveting Philosophical Debate - Experience the intense intellectual duel between Socrates and Protagoras on stage before an Athenian audience. Timeless Themes of Education and Virtue - Examine the nature of moral excellence and the limits of sophistry in teaching it. A Study in Contrasts - Explore how Socrates' dialectic method exposes the performative nature of Protagoras' speeches. A Clear and Engaging Modern Adaptation - Makes Plato's complex arguments readable, relatable, and razor-sharp. Essential Reading for Educators, Leaders, and Thinkers - Learn how the ancient debate over wisdom versus fame still applies to modern education and public discourse. From banquet halls to the halls of power, Protagoras challenges every listener to ask: are we learning truth-or learning how to look wise?