Complete Works, in Chronological Order, Grouped in Four Periods; With Biography by Porphyry, Eunapius, & Suidas, Commentary by Porphyry, Illustrations ... Influence, Index of Subjects, Thoughts And...

by Kenneth Sylvan Guthrie, Plotinus (Creator)

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Genres: Philosophy, Ancient History, Classics

296 pages, Hardcover

First published April 9, 2009

About the author

Kenneth Sylvan Launfal Guthrie (1871-1940), philosopher and writer, was a grandson of famous feminist pioneer Frances Wright and brother of William Norman Guthrie, a Scottish-born Episcopalian priest who issued a series of translations of ancient philosophical writers, "making available to the public the neglected treasures of Neo-platonism".

Among his works was a translation of the complete works of Plotinus (1918). He was also an active prohibitionist. In addition he composed music and wrote poetry. He has been described as a "brilliant but eccentric scholar" by Manly Palmer Hall.

Reviews

[S · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Enneads by Plotinos is a philosophical masterpiece that laid the groundwork for the development of Neoplatonism. The book is a collection of six books containing 54 treatises that delve into the nature of the universe, the human soul, and the concept of the One. Plotinos' ideas were heavily influenced by Plato, Aristotle, and the Stoics. The key theme of the Enneads is the nature of reality, with a strong focus on the concept of the One as the ultimate source of all existence. The book's impact on the development of philosophy is immense, as it influenced thinkers throughout history. However, its dense language and complex concepts may be challenging for readers without a strong background in philosophy. One potential critique of the book is that it can be repetitive at times, with similar ideas presented in different treatises. Overall, The Enneads is a must-read for those interested in philosophy and the development of Western thought.

[Alex Frame · Rating 4 out of 5]

This may be the last of the great Greek philosophers. He's not an easy read but he synthesizes all the earlier Greeks like Socrates, Plato and Aristotle into his own unique system and was influential though up to recently i hadn't heard of him.
His segment on souls is mind boggling and will stay with you.