Plato attributes ancient catastrophe quote to Solon. Quote attributed to Critias speaking to Solon in Plato's Timaeus References many past destructions of humanity from fire, water, and other causes Notes the lack of old opinions handed down among the Greeks due to repeated destructions
Plato's dialogue Timaeus contains a fascinating quote from an Egyptian priest speaking to Solon about lost civilizations. The priest observes that humanity has suffered many destructions by fire, water, and other causes over the ages, leaving the Greeks with no continuous oral traditions passed down through time. Critias recounts this story to Socrates, having heard it from Solon himself.
Key Facts
- Quote attributed to Critias speaking to Solon in Plato's Timaeus
- References many past destructions of humanity from fire, water, and other causes
- Notes the lack of old opinions handed down among the Greeks due to repeated destructions
Source: The Shaman and The Philosopher. Ep.29 by Institute for Natural Philosophy