On the Proclus' Commentary on Plato's Parmenides

Abstract

Proclus (A.D. 412-485), one of the most important representatives of the Neo-Platonic philosophy, examines Plato's Parmenides in a wonderful metaphysics monument, "Commentary on Plato's Parmenides." This dialogue is considered to be an important opus in Plato's philosophy due to the fact that he himself questioned his "Idea theory". Proclus, in his commentary analyses the dialogue, Parmenides, perfectly dealing with each and every detail. He points out that the sentences which the reader initially thinks that they are only details are actually an analogy which exemplifies Plato's metaphysics. However, while interpreting Plato's metaphysics, Proclus with the influence of Plotinus, provides the reader with the Neo-Platonic metaphysics, especially the knowledge about the emanation theory. Proclus examines the stages of emanation, and how plurality participates in the "One". He also considers the relationship between plurality and the "One" which is a unifying principle beyond plurality. Finally; Proclus' Commentary on Plato's Parmenides, constitues a cornerstone describing the Neo-Platonic metaphysics as well as a significant opus towards understanding Plato's philosophy.