Phaedrus Chapter Summary & Analysis - Chapter 4 (248-256) Summary

Chapter 4 (248-256) Summary

Souls retain some of the vision gained before they entered the body. The limited memory and partial awareness of the other world makes their perception of reality difficult. In their perfect state they had a vision and knew no evil. Bodies limit the perception of souls that allow for seeing perfection and simplicity.

Souls readily discern beauty. Its effect strikes them through sight although beauty has no connection with wisdom. Those affected by evil find it difficult to recognize true beauty that involves purity, and are unable to admire beauty on earth. They engage mostly in sensual pleasures driven by desires. Beauty provides inspiration and nourishment allowing for acquiring wings. Those that can recognize true beauty experience love through admiration and respect. It is manifested through a tingling experience, where inspiration provides nourishment that encourages wings.

Beauty can stimulate the movement of particles that form desire. Such...
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