Charmides (dialogue)

Tender and Private

Socratic dialogue by Plato

Charmides
Author	Plato
Language	Ancient Greek

Charmides (Ancient Greek: Χαρμίδης ) is a Socratic dialogue written by the philosopher Plato. The dialogue features Socrates and two of his associates, Critias and Charmides. The central theme of the dialogue is the concept of sophrosyne, often translated as "temperance" or "self-control".

Characters

• Socrates
• Critias
• Charmides

Setting

The dialogue is set in a palaestra, a wrestling school in Athens, shortly after Socrates' return from the Battle of Potidaea.

Summary

The dialogue begins with Socrates returning to Athens and visiting a wrestling school. There, he encounters Critias and Charmides. Charmides, a young and handsome man, is suffering from a headache, and Socrates offers to cure him with a charm, provided that Charmides can demonstrate sophrosyne.

Socrates engages Charmides in a discussion to define sophrosyne. Charmides offers several definitions, each of which Socrates examines and refutes. The dialogue explores various aspects of self-control, knowledge, and the relationship between the two.

Themes

The primary theme of the dialogue is sophrosyne, which encompasses self-control, moderation, and temperance. The dialogue also touches on the nature of knowledge and the importance of self-awareness.

Philosophical Significance

The Charmides is significant for its exploration of sophrosyne and its role in ethical behavior. It also provides insight into Socratic method and the philosophical techniques used by Socrates to examine and refute definitions.

Related Dialogues

• Laches
• Euthyphro
• Apology
• Crito
• Phaedo

See also

• Plato
• Socrates
• Sophrosyne
• Ancient Greek philosophy