The dialogue as Plato's form: from thought to writing

do pensamento à escritura

Abstract

This work discusses the importance of the style which Plato presents in his philosophical discourse. The dialogue is a characteristic form of Plato's philosophy. In his dialogues Plato aimed at representing a discussion on philosophical issues, however, neither does he reveal the intended meaning of his philosophy nor impose it. Plato also showed some concern with the teaching through the writing, questioning the scope of it. He found in the dialogue form an unpretentious but seductive way to diffuse his philosophy. Although teaching through writing does not guarantee, once and for all, the absorption of wisdom, Plato used it as a valuable tool in the initiation of one's self philosophical thought.