Diotima

Diotima is a character from Plato's dialogues who teaches Socrates about love and beauty. She presents the idea that love is a pursuit of higher qualities, starting from physical attraction and advancing toward an appreciation of true beauty and goodness. Essentially, Diotima explains that love is a journey of intellectual and spiritual growth, striving to understand and connect with the most profound and perfect aspects of existence. Her teachings highlight love as a means to reach higher understanding and fulfillment beyond superficial appearances.