Word and Meaning in Ancient Alexandria: Theories of Language from Philo to Plotinus (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9780754606963)

During the late Hellenistic and early Imperial periods (B.C. 50 - A.D. 300), important developments may be traced in the philosophy of language and its relationship to mind. This book examines theories of language in the work of theologians and philosophers linked to Ancient Alexandria. The growth of Judaism and Christianity in cultural centers of the Roman Empire, above all Alexandria, provides valuable testimony to the philosophical vitality of this period. The study of Later Greek philosophy should be more closely integrated with the Church Fathers, particularly in the theologically sensitive issue of the nature of language. Robertson traces some related attempts to reconcile immaterial, intelligible reality and the intelligibility of language, explain the structure of language, and clarify the nature of meaning. These shared problems are handled with greater philosophical sophistication by Plotinus, although the comparison with Philo, Clement, and Origen illustrates significant similarities as well as differences between Neoplatonism and early Jewish and Christian philosophy.

Author: David Robertson
ISBN-10: 0754606961
ISBN-13: 9780754606963
Publisher: Routledge
Language: English
Published: 07/08/2008
Pages: 132
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 0.81lbs
Size: 9.21h x 6.14w x 0.38d

Review Citation(s):
Reference and Research Bk News 02/01/2009 pg. 25