The Timaeus of Plato

18 A] TIMAIO2. 57
Sokrates.
Do you remember the extent and scope of the
subjects I appointed for your discussion ?
Timaeus. In part we remember; and whatever we have
forgotten, you are here to aid our memory. But I should
prefer, if it is not troublesome, that you should briefly recapitulate
them from beginning to end, that they may be more firmly
fixed in our minds.
Sokrates. I will. The main subject of my discourse
yesterday was a political constitution, and the kind of principles
and citizens which seemed to me likely to render it most
perfect.
Timaeus.
Yes, and what you said, Sokrates, was very much
to the satisfaction of us all.
Sokrates. Was not our first step to separate the agricultural
class and tradesmen in general from those who were to be the
defenders of our state ?
Timaeus. It was.
Sokrates. And in assigning on natural principles
but one
single pursuit or craft which was suited to each citizen severally,
we declared that those whose duty
it was to fight on behalf of
the community must be guardians only of the city, in case any
one whether without or within her walls should seek to injure
her, and that they should give judgment mercifully
to their
subjects and natural friends, but show themselves stern to the
enemies they met in battle.
Timaeus.
Quite true.
Sokrates. For we described, I think, a certain temperament
which the souls of our guardians must possess, combining in a
peculiar degree high spirit and thoughtfulness, that they might
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