Publisher's Synopsis
Dr. Richard Bentley�������s Dissertations Upon The Epistles Of Phalaris, Themistocles, Socrates, Euripides, And Upon The Fables Of Aesop (1874) is a collection of scholarly essays written by the celebrated English classical scholar and theologian, Dr. Richard Bentley. The book consists of five separate dissertations, each of which focuses on a different aspect of ancient Greek literature and history.The first dissertation is on the Epistles of Phalaris, a collection of letters purportedly written by the tyrant of Agrigentum in the 6th century BC. Bentley argues that these letters are in fact a forgery, and that they were likely written in the 2nd century BC.The second dissertation is on the Epistles of Themistocles, a collection of letters attributed to the famous Athenian general and politician. Bentley argues that these letters are also a forgery, and that they were likely written in the 4th century BC.The third dissertation is on the Socratic dialogues of Plato, and in particular on the character of Socrates himself. Bentley argues that Socrates was not the simple-minded philosopher portrayed in Plato�������s dialogues, but rather a complex and sophisticated thinker who was deeply engaged with the political and social issues of his time.The fourth dissertation is on the tragedies of Euripides, and in particular on the character of Medea. Bentley argues that Medea is not the irrational and bloodthirsty character portrayed in the play, but rather a complex and sympathetic figure who is driven to her actions by the injustices of the society in which she lives.The final dissertation is on the fables of Aesop, and in particular on the question of whether Aesop himself was a real historical figure or simply a literary invention. Bentley argues that Aesop was likely a real person, but that the fables attributed to him were likely written by a number of different authors over a period of several centuries.Overall, Dr. Richard Bentley�������s Dissertations Upon The Epistles Of Phalaris, Themistocles, Socrates, Euripides, And Upon The Fables Of Aesop is a fascinating and insightful exploration of some of the most important works of ancient Greek literature, written by one of the most renowned classical scholars of his time.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.
