Steven Helmer Publications

Synopsis: Known as one of history's most influential philosophers, Plato's writings have been a cornerstone of Western governments and culture, including his  Republic, which had an influence on the United States' government. This non-fiction book explores Plato's relationship with two Syracuse monarchs, both named Dionysius, and how that relationship (and imprisonment) shaped his best-known work while also help bring down the monarchy. Review: When I came across Plato and the Tyrant at my library, I was intrigued. I knew of the philosopher and his influence on modern literature and governments but didn't know a whole lot about the relationship that helped influence his influential masterpiece. After reading the book, I was not disappointed. I think the thing that caught my attention most was the father/son duo of Dionysius the Elder and Dionysius the Younger and how that dynasty came into power as a monarchy when the rest of Ancient Greece was practicing some for...