Myth and philosophy on stage

connections, divisions, and interdependence

pp. 1-32

in: Omid Tofighian, Myth and philosophy in Platonic dialogues, Basingstoke, Palgrave Macmillan, 2016

Abstract

Tofighian draws connections between Plato studies and the history of myth studies. He analyzes the history and impact of religious studies and mythography and identifies overlaps and influences in modern perspectives on Plato's myths. Tofighian accounts for recent intellectual developments in myth studies and questions why they have been marginalized or ignored in studies of Plato's myths. He also resists defining myth by using one definition or reducing myth to one or a limited number of functions. Tofighian argues that each myth needs to be examined individually (i.e., in its own philosophical, literary, and thematic context). He prepares readers for an interpretation of Plato's dialogues that appreciates the interdependent nature of myth and philosophy, showing how the two modes of explanation operate in an interdependent unity to produce meaning.