THE ROLE OF CEPHALUS IN PLATO’S REPUBLIC

Abstract

At first glance, Cephalus’ role in the Republic is brief and superficial. In this very long dialogue, Cephalus features in only a few passages during which he initiates the Republic’s famous discussion of justice but then departs as it begins. This unusual and seemingly unnecessary choice by Plato to remove Cephalus from the conversation is fascinating and begs for a deeper exploration of this character. This paper explores Cephalus’ role in the Republic’s discussion of justice and its concluding myth. The significance of Cephalus’ departure and the narrative connections between Book 1 and Book 10 indicate that Plato had a greater role in mind for Cephalus than as a mere catalyst. Interpreting Cephalus’ character in light of the myth of Er shows that he serves as a cautionary example of the fate awaiting those who practise justice without philosophy.