Das sombras ao pensamento puro: uma reflexão sobre a linha dividida no contexto d'A República de Platão

Abstract

This work aims to examine interpretative aspects related to the Divided Line. To do so, we will analyze the text of Plato’s Republic and interpretive nuances concerning the epistemological and ontological character of the schema. The Divided Line is part of a large and complex framework of analogies and images found in Plato’s Republic. In one section of the dialogue, the philosopher presents, among other things, his theory of knowledge, in which he relates states of the soul (psyché) to objects of knowledge. He outlines a complex schema that offers various notions and suggestions regarding the theme of human knowledge. But what would be the main philosophical conception Plato wishes to convey through the schema of the Line within the context of the dialogue? With regard to the epistemological character of this structure, is there some kind of gradation of knowledge present? Are the four segments of the line completely isolated from one another? Thus, with respect to its two extremes (eikasía and nóesis), would one represent the complete absence of knowledge and the other full knowledge? What is the role of opinion within the larger framework of analogies and images of the Republic? Taking such questions as a horizon for exploration, without the aspiration to answer them definitively, we will develop our reflection.