In How to Talk about Love: An Ancient Guide for Modern Lovers, Armand D’Angour offers a fresh and engaging translation of Plato’s Symposium, making one of antiquity’s most profound discussions on love accessible to contemporary readers. This work is particularly valuable for students and educators seeking to explore classical philosophy’s relevance to modern concepts of love, relationships, and human connection.

The Symposium is structured around a series of speeches delivered by prominent Athenians at a convivial gathering, each offering their perspective on the nature of love, or Eros. D’Angour’s translation captures the nuances of these speeches, preserving the distinct voices and rhetorical styles of figures like Phaedrus, Pausanias, Eryximachus, Aristophanes, Agathon, Socrates, and Alcibiades. The dialogues traverse themes from the physical and psychological aspects of love to its role in inspiring virtue and the pursuit of truth.

D’Angour’s rendition stands out for its clarity and readability, qualities that are essential for engaging students who may be new to classical texts. By presenting the original Greek alongside the English translation, the book also serves as a valuable resource for students studying ancient languages, allowing for a deeper appreciation of Plato’s linguistic artistry.

For educators, this translation provides a versatile tool for classroom instruction. The thematic richness of the Symposium lends itself to interdisciplinary exploration, intersecting with subjects such as literature, psychology, ethics, and gender studies. Teachers can facilitate discussions on the varying conceptions of love presented in the text, encouraging students to compare and contrast these ancient perspectives with contemporary understandings.

One of the notable strengths of D’Angour’s translation is its ability to convey the humor and wit inherent in the original dialogues. For instance, Aristophanes’ mythological account of love’s origins is rendered with a playful tone that maintains the comedic essence of the narrative. This approach not only preserves the literary quality of the text but also makes it more relatable and engaging for modern readers.

Incorporating this translation into the curriculum can also foster critical thinking and analytical skills. Students can be tasked with examining the philosophical arguments presented by each speaker, evaluating their logical coherence, and considering their applicability to modern contexts. Such exercises promote a deeper understanding of philosophical discourse and its evolution over time.

Moreover, the Symposium’s exploration of love as a motivating force for personal and societal betterment resonates with contemporary discussions on the role of emotions in ethical decision-making and social cohesion. D’Angour’s translation facilitates these connections, enabling students to draw parallels between ancient philosophical concepts and modern theories in psychology and sociology.

The book’s structure allows for flexible integration into various course modules. Educators can assign specific speeches for focused analysis or encourage comparative studies between the different viewpoints presented. This modularity supports diverse pedagogical approaches, from lecture-based instruction to seminar-style discussions and collaborative projects.

In addition to its academic applications, How to Talk about Love serves as a catalyst for personal reflection among students. Engaging with the text prompts readers to consider their own beliefs and experiences related to love, fostering a more introspective and empathetic classroom environment. Such personal engagement can enhance students’ emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills, which are increasingly recognized as vital components of holistic education.

D’Angour’s insightful introduction and commentary provide essential context for understanding the historical and cultural backdrop of the Symposium. His explanations elucidate the social norms and philosophical traditions of ancient Athens, enriching students’ comprehension of the text and its significance within the broader canon of Western philosophy.

The translation also opens avenues for creative assignments. Students might be encouraged to compose their own speeches on love, emulating the rhetorical styles of the Symposium’s characters, or to reinterpret the dialogues through modern mediums such as film, theater, or digital storytelling. These activities not only deepen engagement with the material but also cultivate students’ expressive and interpretive abilities.

In terms of accessibility, D’Angour’s translation is well-suited for a wide range of educational levels, from advanced high school courses to undergraduate programs. Its lucid prose and thoughtful annotations make it an excellent entry point for students encountering Plato for the first time, while its fidelity to the original text ensures its utility for more advanced scholarly inquiry.

The book’s relevance extends beyond the humanities, offering valuable insights for students in fields such as psychology, political science, and communication studies. The Symposium’s examination of love’s influence on human behavior and societal structures provides a multidisciplinary platform for exploring the intersections between emotion, reason, and social organization.

Educators can also leverage the text to address contemporary issues related to gender and sexuality. While the Symposium reflects the gender norms of its time, D’Angour’s translation invites critical discussions on how these ancient perspectives align or conflict with modern understandings of gender identity and sexual orientation. Such dialogues can promote inclusivity and cultural awareness within the classroom.

How to Talk about Love: An Ancient Guide for Modern Lovers is a commendable translation that brings Plato’s Symposium to life for modern audiences. Armand D’Angour’s work not only preserves the philosophical depth and literary charm of the original but also enhances its pedagogical value through clarity, contextualization, and accessibility. For students and teachers alike, this book offers a rich resource for exploring the complexities of love and its enduring significance in human experience.