In this half audio for non-subscribers, I begin the analysis of Plato’s Republic, covering books I and II, setting the stage for what will be the ideal city. Also contained in Book II is a fascinating discussion of the Hellenic mysteries and the Ring of Gyges, the magical talisman from a giant that grants the power to be invisible. Is this ring only a morality tale, or does it signify hidden metaphysics and secret techne?

This is a partial lecture, the full version can be obtained by subscribing to JaysAnalysis for 4.95 a month, as well as access to archived talks and interviews, at the subscription tab above.

Articles referenced include:

Plato’s Cosmology and Achilles’ Shield Compared

The Mystery of the Serpentine Mirror

The Leiden Egyptian Magical Papyri

The Hermetica

The Mystery of the Serpent by Hans Leisegang

Egyptian Mysteries of God and Nature in Relation to Modern Geopolitics