Myth and Truth in Republic 2-3

Abstract

This paper argues that myth in Kallipolis is used to communicate philosophical truths, rather than distribute politically motivated falsehoods. It first considers the function of myth in the ideal artistic culture of Kallipolis (I), and the philosophical theology that informs it (II). On this basis, it is argued that the discussion of medicinal falsehoods at 382a-d is more focused on the truth-content of myth than usually assumed (III). The latter part of the paper (IV and V) explores the connection between this new understanding of myth in books 2-3 and the philosophical myths in the central books of the dialogue.