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Charmides

Written by Plato

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Classical literatureSocrates, 470 BC-399 BCEthicsKnowledge, Theory ofTemperance

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About this book

“Charmides” by Plato is a philosophical dialogue written during the 4th century BC. The text primarily explores the concept of temperance (or moderation) through a dynamic conversation between Socrates and various other characters, including the beautiful youth Charmides, as they grapple with the meaning and implications of this virtue. The opening of "Charmides" introduces the setting and characters, establishing Socrates as the narrator and providing glimpses into his relationships with the others. Socrates returns from military service and finds himself in the company of friends at a palaestra. A discussion arises about the young Charmides, who enters to great admiration for his physical beauty, prompting an inquiry into whether he possesses the moral quality of temperance. Socrates engages Charmides in a series of definitions and logical examinations regarding the nature of temperance. They explore various interpretations, including quietness, modesty, and self-knowledge, while also confronting the complexities inherent in defining such virtues. The beginning serves not only to engage readers with the characters but also sets the stage for deeper philosophical inquiries central to Plato's work.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Charmides, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 6 hours
  • advanced
  • philosophical
  • inquisitive
  • intellectual

Plato's "Charmides" is a philosophical dialogue centered on Socrates' quest to define temperance (sophrosyne), a cardinal virtue. The narrative begins with Socrates returning from war and engaging with friends at a palaestra, where the exceptionally beautiful youth, Charmides, becomes the subject of their inquiry. Through a series of Socratic cross-examinations, Socrates challenges Charmides and later his guardian, Critias, on various proposed definitions of temperance, including quietness, modesty, 'doing one's own business,' and self-knowledge. Despite rigorous logical examination and the exploration of profound philosophical concepts, the dialogue ultimately concludes in a state of aporia, leaving the true nature of temperance undefined but its complexities deeply illuminated.

“I believe I have a charm, which I learned from a Thracian physician of Zamolxis, who said that the soul must be treated first, if the head and body are to be well.”

Key themes

The Nature of Temperance (Sophrosyne)
This is the central and overarching theme of the dialogue. Socrates' relentless questioning aims to define temperance, a virtue encompassing moderation, self-control, and soundness of mind. The dialogue explores various facets of temperance, from outward behavior to internal states, and its relationship to other virtues like wisdom and happiness.
Self-Knowledge and Epistemology
A significant portion of the dialogue, particularly with Critias, delves into the concept of self-knowledge as a potential definition of temperance. This leads to profound epistemological questions about what it means to 'know oneself,' whether knowledge can know itself (the 'science of science'), and if such knowledge is truly beneficial or even possible. It explores the limits of human understanding.
The Socratic Method and Aporia
The entire dialogue is a masterclass in the Socratic method of elenchus, or cross-examination. Socrates systematically questions and refutes proposed definitions, exposing contradictions and leading his interlocutors to a state of aporia (perplexity or impasse). This process, while often inconclusive, is presented as crucial for intellectual growth and the realization of one's own ignorance, which is the first step towards true knowledge.

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How does the setting of the palaestra and the emphasis on Charmides' physical beauty influence the philosophical inquiry into temperance?

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