The Protagoras of Plato

This collection receives praise for its valuable philosophical content, particularly highlighting Alcibiades I and Letter VII as significant and thought-provoking texts. Reviewers consistently laud the quality of the introductory studies and scholarly analyses, with Francisco Lisi's contributions frequently singled out as formidable, well-executed, and often more engaging than the primary dialogues themselves. The historical context provided, which explores the intriguing phenomenon of numerous texts being attributed to Plato, is considered important for distinguishing authentic works from apocrypha. The book is also noted for its historical value, shedding light on the reception and expansion of Platonic ideas, and the overall edition, including translation, is generally regarded as good, especially concerning the introductions. Even in less accomplished dialogues, Plato's treatment of political systems is found to be interesting and reflective.

However, a significant point of criticism is that many of the included dialogues and letters are perceived as uninteresting, poorly executed, or clearly apocryphal, leading to a sense of disappointment among readers. Reviewers often felt that the book's primary value resided in its supplementary material, such as the introductions and studies, rather than the core texts, with some dialogues described as not among Plato's most accomplished works. The quality of the notes received mixed feedback, with at least one reviewer finding them unhelpful. Additionally, a physical quality issue was mentioned, with the ink reportedly smudging easily. For some, the collection felt akin to an accumulation of less significant or even inauthentic works.

In conclusion, this book presents a mixed experience. Its greatest strength lies in its comprehensive scholarly apparatus, offering crucial insights into the complexities of the Platonic corpus and the challenges of textual authenticity. While the inclusion of many less engaging or inauthentic dialogues and letters might disappoint some, the book is highly recommended for serious students of philosophy, classicists, and scholars interested in the history of Platonic thought and the critical distinction between genuine and apocryphal works. It serves as a valuable resource for those who appreciate detailed scholarly analysis and historical context, rather than a collection of Plato's most celebrated or accessible writings.