Critias is a dialogue written by Plato, which is part of the larger work known as the Timaeus-Critias. The dialogue is set in the year 411 BC, and is narrated by Socrates. The dialogue begins with Socrates asking Critias to tell him a story about the lost island of Atlantis. Critias then tells the story of how the island of Atlantis was once a great and powerful empire, but eventually fell into ruin due to its own hubris. He then goes on to describe the island in detail, including its geography, its people, and its government. The dialogue then shifts to a discussion of the moral and political implications of the story. Critias argues that the story of Atlantis serves as a warning to all people, and that it is a reminder of the consequences of pride and ambition. He also argues that the story of Atlantis is a reminder of the importance of justice and moderation in government. The dialogue ends with Socrates and Critias agreeing that the story of Atlantis is a valuable lesson for all people.
By Plato · First published 347 · Genre: Philosophy, Classical Literature, History