Die Vorsokratiker

This chapter deals with the use of Preplatonic philosophy in the Enneads. In the first part, it explains why, in this context, it is better to speak of Preplatonics instead of Presocratics. Then, it examines the ways in which Plotinus refers to the Preplatonics, and the different functions of these references within his arguments. This overview also points out that there is a close link between Plotinus’ reconstruction of the Greek philosophical tradition and his exegesis: according to Plotinus, the true meaning of Preplatonic theories, ideas or quotations is not evident, but needs to be discovered through an exegesis that is based on Platonic principles (or rather, on Plotinus’ interpretation of them). After that, the view on Preplatonic philosophy as a whole that emerges from the Enneads is outlined. The chapter ends with some considerations on the types of sources probably used by Plotinus.