Foreign Languages & Literatures ETDs

Publication Date

6-9-2016

Abstract

In this project I explore Platos deployment and transposition of Orphic eschatological ideas through his incorporation of Orphic formulae, based on the Olbian Tablets and Orphic Gold Tablets, into his philosophical settings throughout his dialogues. I show how Plato deploys Orphic formulae throughout his dialogues in order to promote his philosophy, which points to Plato's knowledge of Orphic doctrine. First I analyze Plato's use of specific terminology and formulae in eschatological contexts. Then I look specifically at the Orphic term poinē in terms of the Orphic myth of Dionysus. I contend with the arguments of Edmonds who redefines the Greek word poinē as timé in order to discredit the existence of an Orphic doctrine. I survey the use of the Greek word poinē in Homer, Pindar, Plato, the Derveni Papyrus and the Gur\xf4b Papyrus in order to demonstrate that poinē points to the cohesiveness and integrity of the Orphic doctrine.

Keywords

Plato, Pindar, Orphic Gold Tablets, Derveni Papyrus, Eschatology, Philosophy

Document Type

Thesis

Language

English

Degree Name

Comparative Literature and Cultural Studies

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures

First Committee Member (Chair)

Monica, Cyrino

Second Committee Member

Osman, Umurhan

Download

Share

COinS