Interpretation of the Allegory of the Cave
Be sure to set out clearly the thesis you mean to defend. Do not simply respond to the questions contained below, which are meant to stimulate ideas and suggest directions you may take in writing your essay.
Rather, organize your ideas in a logical and coherent way. If you do not have a specific thesis, then be sure to articulate the main question you will be examining. At the end of the essay, you should be able to summarize your findings.
How does Plato’s allegory of the cave represent the education of the philosopher? What are the obstacles to seeking and attaining wisdom?
What are the rewards? Consider carefully the different symbols of the allegory. In what way can humankind be seen as living in darkness and ignorance?
How are we to be freed from this situation? In what way does the sun represent the “perfect model of the good, the use of which makes all just things and other such become useful and helpful?” (355)
