Word and Meaning in Ancient Alexandria: Theories of Language from Philo to Plotinus

by David Robertson

Overview

During the late Hellenistic and early Imperial periods (B.C. 50 – A.D. 300), important developments may be traced in the philosophy of language and its relationship to mind. Focusing on two basic issues, why is language intelligible and how is communication possible, Robertson traces some related attempts to reconcile immaterial, intelligible reality and the intelligibility of language, explain the structure of language, and clarify the nature of meaning. These shared problems are handled with greater philosophical sophistication by Plotinus, although the comparison with Philo, Clement, and Origen illustrates significant similarities as well as differences between Neoplatonism and early Jewish and Christian philosophy.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781409485674
Publisher:	Ashgate Publishing Ltd
Publication date:	10/01/2012
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	17 MB
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About the Author

David Robertson is a faculty member in the Philosophy Department at Felician College, New Jersey, USA

Table of Contents

Contents: Preface; Introduction; Philo; Clement; Origen; Plotinus; Conclusion; Bibliography; Indexes.

Editorial Reviews

’The book is clearly written, well illustrated with relevant quotations (in Greek and translation), and also contains an adequate bibliography and indices. It offers an illuminating guide to the interplay between religious and philosophical ideas of mind and language in these thinkers.’ Phronesis

From the Publisher