The Symposium (Plato)

"The Symposium" is a philosophical dialogue by Plato that explores the nature of love through a series of speeches given by various characters at a banquet. Each speaker presents different perspectives on love—ranging from physical attraction to spiritual and intellectual connections. The dialogue ultimately elevates love as a powerful force that drives individuals toward truth and beauty. Socrates recounts teachings from Diotima, a wise woman, who describes love as a desire for immortality, suggesting that true love goes beyond mere desire and leads one towards deeper understanding and the pursuit of the eternal.