Handbuch Antike Rhetorik

Michael Erler

11Platon und seine Rhetorik

Abstract: In his treatment of rhetoric Plato advances a fundamental critique of rhetoric. Yet his critique is by no means negative in all respects. It also opens up perspectives for a new concept of rhetoric by retaining traditional methods while altering its objective. The rules of Plato’s transformed rhetoric became a decisive part of the philosophical communication, as illustrated in Plato’s dialogues, and at the same time provide a hermeneutical means for their better understanding. Plato’s proto-philosopher Socrates, who calls himself a true politician and rhetorician, stands for obeying the rules of philosophical rhetoric, which combines irritating and therapeutical aspects with persuasive elements. ...