Because I am a history major the question of the historical significance of The Republic has stayed with me the whole time i've been reading it. It has obviously been infleuntial to western style thought but to what extent? How much are the ideas of moderation and justice based on Socates' conversations. I read the interpretive essay for books VI and VII and it in my opinion it seemed to state that the breaking of ties with family and sexual stereotypes would allow everyone an equal opportunity to pursue their best interest. This is certaintly idealistic and yet it seems to represent most modern western cultures. If The Republic is seen by many as a catalyst for the western-style school of thought then I can definitely understand its significance.
I have not read book VIII yet so I am anxious to see what happens next. The reason for this anxiety is because it seems Socrates has already proven the city will fail because the philosopher/king can not and will not rule and is also doubtful that "the good" could actually be rationalized by a mortal. If this is the case then what is left for the city in the next seventy pages? For me what seemed like the pursuit of perfection now seems to be turning into some form of ideology that hints at danger. Will Socrates dismantle his city or try to regroup and built it in a differnt manner? These are some of the questions that are on my mind if anyone has input.
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