This book studies the hymns composed by the Neoplatonist Proclus in the context of his philosophy. Its main claim is that the hymns should be understood in the context of theurgy, the ritual art adopted by the Neoplatonists in order to obtain mystical experiences. The first part of the book consists of a series of essays which discuss the relation of the hymns to Proclus' Neoplatonism, his theory of poetry, and especially to theurgy. The second part offers translations of the individual hymns together with a detailed commentary. This study will be of special interest to those working in the...

The Cratylus contains Plato's important, yet ambiguous discussion of language. By studying the reception of this text in antiquity, this book explores the various ideas on language and its relation to philosophy in the Platonic tradition. This discussion provides the backdrop for a detailed analysis of the commentary on the dialogue by Proclus. His, often original, views on language are, it appears, the product of a critical reevaluation of those of his predecessors, whereas his interpretation of the Cratylus throws new light on that dialogue. This book will thus be of interest both to...