Henry More, The Platonist
"The Henry More, The Platonist" by A.C. Benson is a biographical novel that explores the life and philosophy of Henry More, a prominent English philosopher during the Renaissance period. The book provides an in-depth look at More's intellectual journey, from his early years as a student of classical literature to his later years as a renowned philosopher and theologian. Throughout the novel, Benson delves into More's thoughts on various philosophical topics, including Platonism, Aristotelianism, and the nature of God. More's belief in the existence of a higher realm of reality, separate from the physical world, is a central theme of the book. He argues that this higher realm is the true source of all knowledge and truth, and that it is the duty of philosophers to explore and understand it. The novel also examines More's personal life, including his relationships with his wife and children, as well as his involvement in the political and religious conflicts of his time. Through Benson's vivid characterizations and historical details, readers gain a comprehensive understanding of More's intellectual and personal legacy. Overall, "The Henry More, The Platonist" is a thought-provoking and engaging read that sheds light on the life and philosophy of one of the most influential thinkers of the Renaissance era.
By A.C. Benson · First published 1911 · Genre: Philosophy, Biography, History · 8,955 words
First lines
About the middle of the seventeenth century, Hobbes and Descartes, clear-headed and unprejudiced thinkers, caused a kind of panic in the devotional world: they resolved that they would not take anything for granted. Starting from a Socratic ignorance, they determined to verify, to try (and it was time) if they could not find a little firm ground among the vast and bewildering mass of rash dogmas and unsupported assertions that lumbered the scene of thought. Such an attempt cut very hard at Revelation. The religious fabric was so perilously elaborate -- the removal of a brick was likely to set so much tumbling -- its defenders felt themselves bound to believe that the part was as important, if not more so, than the whole; and they had pledged themselves so widely and rashly that they made no attempt at organised rational resistance, but attempted to overwhelm the rough intruders with torrents of solemn imprecations.
What this Textopian page supports
Henry More, The Platonist is listed on Textopian as an essay by A.C. Benson, dated 1911 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: A.C. Benson
- Date: 1911 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Philosophy, Biography, History, Non-Fiction
- Length: 8,955 words
- Structure: 1 section, 88 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Henry More, The Platonist by A.C. Benson
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Henry More, The Platonist?
- How does this essay by A.C. Benson fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Philosophy first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- A Minute Philosopher by A. C. Benson
- Andrew Marvell by A. C. Benson
- Hugh Memoirs Of A Brother by A. C. Benson
- Memoirs Of Arthur Hamilton by A. C. Benson
- Vincent Bourne by A. C. Benson
- Thomas Gray by A. C. Benson
Genres
- Philosophy — The book explores the philosophical ideas and worldview of Henry More, a renowned Platonist.
- Biography — The book chronicles the life and intellectual journey of Henry More, making it a relevant genre.
- History — The book offers historical context and insight into the time of Henry More, justifying this genre.
- Non-Fiction — The book is based on real life events and figures, hence, Non-Fiction is a relevant genre.
Tags
cambridge · came · christ · could · divine · dr · english literature · even · father · friend · god · great