Gretchen Reydams-Schils on Calcidius and the Timæus
Oct 17, 2023
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Gretchen Reydams-Schils, Latin translation and commentary expert, discusses the interpretation and anti-esotericism of Calcidius. Topics include Christian identity, the historical context of the translation commentary, the influence of Platonism and metaphysics, the triadic structure of reality, Numinius' influence, Porphyry's role, and the significance of Calcidius's commentary on the Timæus.
Calcidius focused on Plato as the authority figure, emphasizing his importance over Christian scripture and revelation.
Calcidius's commentary on the Timaeus contributes to the connection between Plato's cosmogony and the biblical creation account in Genesis.
Calcidius's work continued to be influential in the early modern period, contributing to the ongoing discussion and interpretation of Plato's philosophy within a Christian context.
Deep dives
Calchideus wrote a partial translation and commentary on the Timaeus
Calchideus wrote a partial translation of the Timaeus, starting around 33 BC, and a partial commentary starting around 53 BC. The authorship and dating of Calchideus's work are contested, but his text is highly influential.
Calchideus's Christian identity is debated
Calchideus is often grouped with Christian Latin neoplatonists, but his Christian identity is not clear. Some scholars argue that his interlocutor was Christian, while others suggest that he may not have had a strong Christian identity.
Calchideus's interpretation of Plato challenges Christian views
Calchideus focused on Plato as the authority figure, emphasizing his importance over Christian scripture and revelation. He rejects some Christian doctrines and does not align with Christian Latin neoplatonism.
Calchideus's influence in the history of Platonism
Calchideus's commentary had a significant impact in the Latin-speaking Western Europe, particularly in the School of Chartres. It became a key text for Latin-speaking philosophers who sought to access Plato's ideas in the absence of direct access to Greek sources.
Calchideus's commentary connects Timaeus to Genesis
Calchideus's commentary on the Timaeus contributes to the connection between Plato's cosmogony and the biblical creation account in Genesis. This synthesis of ideas becomes important in the reception and interpretation of both texts in the Western intellectual tradition.
Calchideus's commentary influences early modern Christian philosophy
Calchideus's work continued to be influential in the early modern period, including for figures like Marsilio Ficino. His commentary contributed to the ongoing discussion and interpretation of Plato's philosophy within a Christian context.
We discuss the Latin translation and commentary of Calcidius with Gretchen Reydams-Schils. Who was Calcidius, where did he get his interpretations of what Plato meant, and, best of all, how did his anti-esotericist approach to Plato feed into western Christian esotericisms? We find out.
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