صفحة 5 من 1391

We may judge from the noble commencement of the Timaeus, from the

fragment of the Critias itself, and from the third book of the

Laws, in what manner Plato would have treated this high argument.

We can only guess why the great design was abandoned; perhaps

because Plato became sensible of some incongruity in a fictitious

history, or because he had lost his interest in it, or because

advancing years forbade the completion of it; and we may please

ourselves with the fancy that had this imaginary narrative ever

been finished, we should have found Plato himself sympathising

with the struggle for Hellenic independence (cp. Laws, iii. 698

ff.), singing a hymn of triumph over Marathon and Salamis,

perhaps making the reflection of Herodotus (v.