William H. F. Altman, "The Revival of Platonism in Cicero's Late Philosophy: Platonis Aemulus and the Invention of Cicero" (Lexington Books, 2016)

Written in Latin between AD 397 and 400, 'Confessions' is a blend of autobiography, philosophy, theology, and critical exegesis of the Christian Bible. The first nine books are autobiographical, tracing Augustine's life from his birth to his conversion to Catholicism. He recounts his sinful youth, his involvement with Manicheism and Neoplatonism, and his eventual conversion in a Milanese garden. The last four books focus on philosophical and theological issues, including memory, time, eternity, and the interpretation of the Book of Genesis. The work is structured as a series of prayers to God, reflecting Augustine's journey of redemption and his understanding of God's grace and providence.

Plato's Republic is one of his most famous works, a philosophical dialogue exploring justice, ideal societies, and the nature of reality. It features the allegory of the cave, a powerful metaphor for the limitations of human perception and the pursuit of knowledge. The dialogue delves into various forms of government, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses, ultimately advocating for a philosopher-king to rule the ideal state. The Republic also examines the tripartite soul, proposing that reason, spirit, and appetite must be harmonized for individual and societal well-being. Its enduring influence on political philosophy and ethics makes it a cornerstone of Western thought.

Xenophon's 'Memorabilia' is a collection of anecdotes and dialogues that portray the life and teachings of Socrates. Written in the 4th century BC, it offers valuable insights into Socratic philosophy and its impact on ancient Greece. The work presents Socrates as a teacher who used questioning and critical thinking to challenge conventional wisdom and encourage self-examination. Through vivid accounts of conversations and events, Xenophon captures the essence of Socratic thought and its enduring relevance. 'Memorabilia' remains a significant historical and philosophical text, providing a rich understanding of one of history's most influential thinkers.

Cicero's De Oratore is a significant work on rhetoric and oratory, exploring the art of public speaking and persuasion. While not solely focused on memory, it touches upon the importance of memory in effective communication. Cicero's writings reflect the advanced understanding of memory techniques in ancient Rome. The work highlights the value of memory training in classical education and its role in mastering the art of rhetoric. It provides insights into the cultural context of memory in ancient society.

Gorgias es un diálogo de Platón que explora la naturaleza de la retórica, la justicia y el bien. El diálogo presenta una discusión entre Sócrates y Gorgias, un sofista conocido por su habilidad retórica. Platón critica la retórica vacía y argumenta que la verdadera justicia se basa en el conocimiento del bien. Gorgias es un ejemplo de la crítica de Platón a la sofística y su búsqueda de la verdad. Su impacto radica en su exploración de la retórica y su relación con la justicia.

In this dialogue, Plato presents his metaphysical, psychological, and epistemological views through the conversations of Socrates and his friends on the day of his execution. The dialogue includes four arguments for the immortality of the soul, discussions on the theory of Forms, and Socrates' account of his final hours. It is a key work in Plato's middle period, combining profound philosophy with a vivid narrative of Socrates' last day.