Notes on the Euthyphro from the Corpus Platonicum

Abstract

Euthyphro as a real historical figure, — there are also no grounds, and to deny that the terms εἷδος, ἰδέα, παράδειγμα are used here technically, which is typical for the late Plato’s dialogues. Suggesting a later date for the Euthyphro, this paper relies on the generic evolution of Plato’s oeuvre (speeches — narrated dialogues — dialogues in the direct dramatic form). We argue that the Euthypho is close to the Laws, which is undoubtedly a late text, not only lexically, but also in terms of the legal dilemma faced by the protagonist. Next, we maintain that a mention of Euthypro “and his circle” (τοῖς ἀμφὶ Εὐθύφρονα) in the Cratylus (Pl. Crat. 400а1), which is chronologically prior, targets Xenocrates, who is also behind the figure of the Euthypro himself. In sum, we believe that this dialogue, which forms part of the Corpus Platonicum, is not authored by Plato.