The Middle Platonists by John M. Dillon

A Study of Platonism 80 B.C. to A.D. 220

This scholarly work delves into the philosophical movement known as Middle Platonism, which flourished between the 1st century BCE and the 3rd century CE. It explores the evolution and adaptation of Platonic thought during this period, highlighting the synthesis of Platonic, Aristotelian, and Stoic elements. The book examines the contributions of key figures such as Plutarch, Alcinous, and Apuleius, and their efforts to reconcile Platonic philosophy with religious and metaphysical ideas of the time. Through a detailed analysis, it sheds light on how Middle Platonism laid the groundwork for the later development of Neoplatonism and its influence on early Christian thought.

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