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Timaeus: Unveiling the Origins of Existence: A Journey Through Cosmic Creation and Eternal Truths Kindle Edition

3.8 out of 5 stars 33 ratings

In "Timaeus," Plato embarks on a profound exploration of the nature of the universe, cosmology, and the relationship between the physical world and the eternal Forms. Written in the form of a dialogue, the text intricately intertwines philosophical discourse with rich metaphysical concepts, embodying the ideals of Platonic thought. Within this work, Plato introduces the character of Timaeus, who presents an elaborate account of the creation of the cosmos, proposing that the universe is an ordered and harmonious entity shaped by a divine craftsman, or Demiurge. This dialogue serves as a pivotal piece in the context of Platonic philosophy, bridging the gap between abstract thought and the empirical observation of the material world. Plato, an eminent philosopher of ancient Greece, laid the foundations of Western philosophy and science. His experiences as a student of Socrates and his subsequent travels exposed him to diverse ideas, notably inspiring "Timaeus." Written in the 4th century BCE, this work reflects Plato's endeavor to reconcile his philosophical inquiries with the prevailing scientific paradigms of his time, revealing his thought's innovative engagement with material reality. "Timaeus" is essential reading for anyone interested in the origins of Western thought, cosmology, and metaphysics. This text not only challenges readers to consider the philosophical implications of the cosmos but also invites a deeper understanding of Plato'Äôs vision of a harmonious universe. It is a vital contribution to both philosophy and science, making it a rewarding read for scholars and casual readers alike.
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Editorial Reviews

Review

Donald Zeyl's fresh and faithful translation and his lucid, comprehensive commentary will bring the sublime Timaeus to life for contemporary students of cosmology, metaphysics, history of science, and philosophy. --Sarah Broadie, Princeton University

About the Author

Donald J. Zeyl is Professor of Philosophy, University of Rhode Island.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B081ZB4V2S
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Good Press
  • Accessibility ‏ : ‎ Learn more
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ November 20, 2019
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 1.5 MB
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 144 pages
  • Page Flip ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Customer Reviews:
    3.8 out of 5 stars 33 ratings

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Plato
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Plato (428-348 BCE) was a philosopher and mathematician in ancient Greece. A student of Socrates and a teacher of Aristotle, his Academy was one of the first institutions of higher learning in the Western world. He is widely regarded as the father of modern philosophy.

Customer reviews

3.8 out of 5 stars
33 global ratings

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Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on January 31, 2023
    This edition of Plato's Timaeus, that says, 'translated and edited by Peter Kalkavage' (2nd edition) IS the edition translated by Donald Zeyl. It is a small grey paperback that includes Zeyl's wonderful and important 75 page introduction. I wasn't certain because the cover, with a man inside a yellow square, and the stated translator said,Kalkavage. This is Zeyl's!! Don't worry, get it. And if you wanted a different version, get this! Zeyl's is fantastic .
    And, though the intro is long, it's an excellent, useful, quick read. He clearly discusses the differences between his version and the popular others - and discusses why he made his choices. You won't regret this purchase.
    4 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on June 7, 2011
    Zeyl's translation is easy to read; for a translation that follows the Greek a little more closely (and therefore is arguably less readable) see Peter Kalkavage's translation. The two translations and their notes are complementary.
    10 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on September 7, 2015
    The Kindle edition contains just the text of the dialogue: no notes, no commentary, no introduction.

    Even at 99 cents, it seems overpriced.
    2 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on January 12, 2008
    Amazon seems to have linked together all the comments on the Timaeus (no matter the translator). It is very possible that you are reading this under a different translation, not the Jowett translation as the commenter suggests. In any case, I recommend the Donald Zeyl translation. It DOES have Stephanus numbering -- very appropriate for class discussions and scholarly work. In my opinion, it is the best English translation available -- and I've spent years working through the text in Greek. Another translation that is nice to have around for alternative readings of key passages (all translation involves interpretation) is Peter Kalkavage's.
    36 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on August 17, 2015
    Very interesting, but definitely should be read in conjunction with a commentary.
    2 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on November 17, 2016
    Awesome dialogue, arguably the best translation. Would recommend!
    One person found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on February 17, 2016
    Great book, I enjoy it big time😃
    2 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on August 21, 2014
    It seems to me that this entire book is intended to be taken as tongue in cheek.
    2 people found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

  • Alison Thinks
    5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent translation which takes intelligent interest with the problems in the Greek.
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on December 6, 2016
    So good for anyone trying to work with the Timaeus - really helpful forward too.
  • Peter Rayfield
    5.0 out of 5 stars one of the world's most important philosophical work
    Reviewed in Canada on September 30, 2021
    To study philosophical issues
  • ogooreck
    5.0 out of 5 stars Five Stars
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on January 30, 2015
    great book
  • john woodward
    4.0 out of 5 stars Four Stars
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on October 16, 2014
    Extraordinary insights described by those ancient Greek teachers of humanity.
  • cruciverbalist
    1.0 out of 5 stars Translation only, no introduction and no Stephanus numbering
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on October 22, 2013
    I downloaded this after reading a review that said the Zeyl translation was accompanied by an excellent introduction AND had the Stephanus numbering. Having downloaded it I find that neither is true. Fortunately I only wasted just over a £1, but it's annoying nevertheless. There is definitely not enough detail provided about Kindle translations of Plato!

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