Abstract:
In Clouds (Nubes) of Aristophanes, Socrates appears as a sophist school owner, the Phrontisterion (‘thinkery’), in which he hosts students of all ages, in order to teach them not only philosophy, literature, physics but also effective sophistic techniques. In Clouds opposed ideas can be found like the aims of historical Socrates’ educational method, combined with Sophists’ modern ones. Aristophanes by using specific educational techniques, points out the educational contrasts and disagreements (Just Cause Vs Unjust Cause) and highlights the chasm between the empty theoretical discourse of young intellectuals and the real educational practical needs (learning skills, practical adjustment etc.). In this comedy, Aristophanes deals with many educational issues, which are common in every culture. What is his goal, however, when he appears with the Socratic method of learning and teaching (use of initiation vocabulary and terminology, ‘borrowings’ from the philosophic activity at the Thinkery?) What are the benefits for an apprentice student at Aristophanes’ Socrates and what is the purpose of the critical view of Aristophanes educational system of his time?
Keywords:
Aristophanes, Philosophy of Education, Socrates, Dramaturgy, Theory of Education, teaching terminology, Comedy
