Philosophy Audiobooks

Eryxias (ΕΡΥΞΙΑΣ) is a Socratic dialogue which may not have been written by Plato (ΠΛΑΤΩΝ). The dialogue discusses whether wealth has value and what the aim of philosophy should be. Translated by Benjamin Jowett. Painting: Portrait of Maria Frederike van Reede-Athlone at Seven Years of Age by Jean-Étienne Liotard. Recording and cover design by Geoffrey Edwards are in the public domain.

Laches (ΛΑΧΗΣ) is a Socratic dialogue written by Plato which discusses examples of courage including weapons masters, soldiers who stand firm in battle, ferocious animals and the wise person who endures evils. Translated by Benjamin Jowett. Painting: The Sacrifice of Polyxena by Giovanni Battista Pittoni.

Rival Lovers (Ancient Greek: ΕΡΑΣΤΑΙ or ΑΝΤΕΡΑΣΤΑΙ Latin: AMATORES) which is also known as The Rivals may not have been written by Plato. Socrates, an athlete and an advocate of liberal education discuss whether philosophers are useful to society and reach some uncertain conclusions. Translated by George Burges. Painting: Three Lovers by Théodore Géricault.

Lysis (ΛΥΣΙΣ) discusses friendship and love between the good and bad. Jacques d'Adelswärd-Fersen named his villa on the Italian island of Capri after this Socratic dialogue. Translated by Benjamin Jowett. Illumination: Denise Poncher before a Vision of Death by Master of the Chronique scandaleuse c.1500.

Second Alcibiades (ΑΛΚΙΒΙΑΔΗΣ Β) is also known as On Prayer. It is not certain whether Plato was the author. The text discusses prayer and concludes that it is best not to ask for specific things from God. Translated by George Burges. Illumination: Cutting from an Antiphonal c. 1465 attributed to Bartolomeo Rigossi da Gallarate.