Podcast Summary: Ascend - The Great Books Podcast
Episode: First Alcibiades by Plato Part One with Alec Bianco and Athenian Stranger
Release Date: August 5, 2025

Introduction

In the inaugural episode of their series on Plato, hosts Deacon Harrison Garlick and Adam Minihan welcome guests Alec Bianco, Director of Curriculum at the Searcy Institute, and the Athenian Stranger, known for his engaging discussions on philosophy at [00:00]. The episode delves into Plato's "First Alcibiades," exploring its significance as a foundational text for first-time readers of Plato.

Authorial Authenticity of "First Alcibiades"

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the debated authorship of "First Alcibiades." Garlick highlights that while some scholars label it as a spurious dialogue—potentially penned by a second or third-generation Platonist—the hosts advocate for accepting it as a work of Plato based on its historical attribution and traditional acceptance.

Deacon Harrison Garlick [13:11]: "I want to receive it from antiquity as a dialogue of Plato... my default is to take that the author is Plato."

Alec Bianco [15:12]: "Even if a student wrote it, it still reflects Plato and Socrates's thoughts."

The Athenian Stranger adds that philological critiques questioning Plato's authorship are often unfounded, likening them to contrived theories in higher biblical criticism.

Athenian Stranger [16:54]: "These claims are grounded in dubious philology... it's a house of cards."

Importance of Starting with "First Alcibiades"

The hosts and guests unanimously agree that "First Alcibiades" is an excellent starting point for new Plato readers. Alec Bianco emphasizes the dialogue's suitability for younger audiences and the imperative of beginning with texts that facilitate moral and philosophical formation.

Alec Bianco [07:05]: "...First Alcibiades is one of the best dialogues for college-age students... to appreciate the texts and authors."

The Athenian Stranger concurs, noting that this dialogue's approachable nature avoids the complex "lexicological warfare" found in other Platonic works, making it more accessible.

Athenian Stranger [19:55]: "Alcibiades is very friendly... it's a great place to start because it's not like some of the harder dialogues."

The Character of Alcibiades

Alcibiades is portrayed as the epitome of Athens' talented but morally flawed youth. The dialogue serves as a case study for Socrates' educational philosophy, aiming to transform Alcibiades' spirited nature into philosophical virtue.

Athenian Stranger [22:58]: "Alcibiades is exemplary... he embodies the love of honor and victory, making him a perfect subject for Socrates' teachings."

Garlick and Alec Bianco discuss Alcibiades' dual potential to become either a philosopher-king or a tyrant, underscoring the delicate balance in Socratic mentorship.

Deacon Harrison Garlick [35:57]: "Alcibiades is on a path to either become a philosopher king or a tyrant... it's a risk worth taking for Socrates."

Socratic Teaching Methods

A central theme is Socrates' adept use of rhetoric and psychological insight to guide Alcibiades. The dialogue exemplifies the Socratic method of knowing the student's soul to tailor teaching effectively.

Athenian Stranger [52:32]: "Socratic dialectic recognizes the role of rhetoric... Socrates tailors his approach based on his understanding of Alcibiades' soul."

Garlick highlights Socrates' ability to engage Alcibiades by appealing to his existing loves and ambitions, fostering a deeper receptiveness to philosophical teachings.

Deacon Harrison Garlick [42:20]: "Socrates steps into what Alcibiades loves to invite him to something greater... it's a masterclass in teaching."

Themes: Philosophy, Education, Virtue

The dialogue intertwines philosophical inquiry with moral education, emphasizing the cultivation of virtue through self-knowledge. The tripartite soul—intellect, spirit, and appetite—is dissected to illustrate the harmonious balance essential for a virtuous life.

Deacon Harrison Garlick [24:41]: "First Alcibiades is a beautiful start for a philosophical formation... it's intertwined with political life."

Alec Bianco [57:31]: "Alcibiades already knows what justice is, but he doesn't know himself."

Rhetoric and Psychology in Teaching

The guests explore how Socrates employs rhetoric not merely as persuasive speech but as a tool for philosophical transformation. Understanding Alcibiades' psychological makeup allows Socrates to guide him toward self-awareness and virtue.

Athenian Stranger [67:44]: "Socratic dialectic is a double movement—lowering himself to engage the interlocutor while elevating them toward higher understanding."

Myth and Narrative in Plato

The use of myths, referred to as "muthologian" by the Athenian Stranger, serves to bridge gaps where logical discourse falls short. In "First Alcibiades," the pseudo-myth of divine lineage underscores the necessity of communal roles in cultivating virtue.

Athenian Stranger [91:22]: "When the need to provide logos can't be met, Socrates employs myths... it's a transition into more profound philosophical discourse."

The Tripartite Soul

Garlick provides a sketch of Plato's tripartite soul—intellect, spirit, and appetite—and how each plays a role in the dialogue. This structure helps in understanding Alcibiades' internal conflicts and Socrates' approach to his education.

Deacon Harrison Garlick [62:35]: "Plato's soul has three parts: intellect seeks truth, spirit loves nobility, and appetite desires pleasure... all are present in the dialogue."

Role of Community in Cultivating Virtue

The dialogue emphasizes the community's role in shaping virtuous individuals. Socrates argues that without proper societal education, talented individuals like Alcibiades can fall into moral decay.

Athenian Stranger [93:00]: "Education intertwines philosophy and politics, ensuring individuals are both rational and socially responsible."

Conclusion

"First Alcibiades" serves as a microcosm of Platonic philosophy, blending narrative, rhetoric, and moral inquiry. Through the mentorship of Socrates, Alcibiades exemplifies the tension between natural talent and cultivated virtue, highlighting the essential role of education and self-knowledge in shaping ethical leaders. The episode underscores the dialogue's enduring relevance as a starting point for those embarking on the Great Books journey.

Notable Quotes

• Deacon Harrison Garlick [13:11]: "I want to receive it from antiquity as a dialogue of Plato... my default is to take that the author is Plato."
• Alec Bianco [07:05]: "...First Alcibiades is one of the best dialogues for college-age students... to appreciate the texts and authors."
• Athenian Stranger [19:55]: "Alcibiades is very friendly... it's a great place to start because it's not like some of the harder dialogues."
• Deacon Harrison Garlick [35:57]: "Alcibiades is on a path to either become a philosopher king or a tyrant... it's a risk worth taking for Socrates."
• Athanian Stranger [52:32]: "Socratic dialectic recognizes the role of rhetoric... Socrates tailors his approach based on his understanding of Alcibiades' soul."
• Alec Bianco [57:31]: "Alcibiades already knows what justice is, but he doesn't know himself."
• Deacon Harrison Garlick [62:35]: "Plato's soul has three parts: intellect seeks truth, spirit loves nobility, and appetite desires pleasure... all are present in the dialogue."

Resources

Listeners are encouraged to access the free 115 Question & Answer Guide to the Iliad, available on the podcast's upcoming website launch. Additional materials, including written guides and community discussions, can be found on their Patreon page and the official website thegreatbookspodcast.com.

Stay Connected

Follow Ascend - The Great Books Podcast on Twitter (now X), YouTube, Facebook, and Patreon to stay updated on future episodes and join the community of Great Books enthusiasts.