Plotinus on Eternity and Time (Ennead III.7)

Provides philosophical definitions which help scholars and students to understand Plotinus’ notions of eternity and time; presents a way in which to understand the relationship between eternity, time, and the hypostases; conveys the practical and experiential aspect of Ennead III.7.

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Plotinus’ Ennead III.7 is a treatise concerning the journey of the human soul first descending into time and then reclaiming its original identity in eternity. The treatise also conceives eternity as the key which grants access to the forms, and time as the portal through which the soul enters the physical universe. Plotinus supports his analysis by drawing upon a rich philosophical tradition including the thought of Plato, Aristotle, the Stoics, Epicureans, Peripatetics and Pythagoreans. This book contains an extensive introduction, alongside the Oxford Classical Text of III.7, a translation, and a line-by-line commentary to guide the reader through the text.