Plato
was born in Athens of aristocratic parents and
received the best possible education for his time. At
20 he met Socrates and was his pupil for eight years.
Following the death of Socrates he traveled
extensively in Greece, Egypt, Italy, and Sicily. In
387 he began his teaching "in the gymnasium of the
Academy and its shady avenues." Except for short
periods of time he continued to teach until his death
in Athens at the age of 81 years.
Plato's writings involved both Socratic as well as
educational dialogues. In the majority Socrates
appeared either in a major or subordinate capacity.
Plato took no particular interest in agriculture.
Sarton states that "we can hardly imagine Plato except
in the garden of the Academy discussing philosophy and
mathematics, quarreling with his colleagues and
disciples." Over the vestibule of his home he is said
to have set up the inscription: "Let no one enter who
is unacquainted with geometry." His works are
characterized by outstanding "purity of language and
elegance of style."
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