The Ancients
Atlantis
Jan 5, 2025
Join Prof. Edith Hall, a Durham University expert on Atlantis and ancient Greek culture, as she unravels the intriguing story behind this legendary lost city. Hall discusses the origins of the Atlantis myth in Plato's dialogues, revealing its reflection on Athenian society, naval power, and moral lessons. The conversation delves into the governance and decline of Atlantis, linking it to ancient civilizations and the critique of imperialism. Discover how a fictional narrative transformed into a quest for historical truth over time.
35:27
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Quick takeaways
- Atlantis, originating from Plato's dialogues, reflects his critique of Athenian society and serves as a cautionary tale against moral decay.
- The enduring myth of Atlantis transformed from a fictional narrative into a quest for a lost civilization, captivating imaginations worldwide.
Deep dives
The Origins of the Atlantis Myth
The story of Atlantis, often regarded as a legend, originates from the dialogues of the ancient Greek philosopher Plato, specifically the 'Timaeus' and 'Critias'. These dialogues, composed in the early 4th century BC, recount Atlantis as a grand civilization existing 9,000 years prior, blending historical narrative with fiction. Although the tale is a fabrication, it draws on real events such as catastrophic disasters that affected ancient civilizations, particularly reflecting the widespread knowledge of tsunamis and societal collapses among the Greeks and Romans. Ultimately, Plato's account serves as the founding text of historical fiction, using the legendary city to explore deeper philosophical ideas about society and morality.
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