306–307
Stranger
Str. Acuteness and quickness, whether in body or soul or vocal utterance, whether they are real or exist in such likenesses as music and graphic art produce in imitation of them—have you never yourself praised one of them or heard them praised by others?
Younger Socrates
Y. Soc. Yes, of course.
Stranger
Str. And do you remember in what way they praise them as occasion offers?
Younger Socrates
Y. Soc. Not in the least.
Stranger
Str. I wonder if I can express to you in words what I have in mind.
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Younger Socrates
Y. Soc. Why not?
Stranger
Str. You seem to think that is an easy thing to do. However, let us consider the matter as it appears in the opposite classes. For example, when we admire, as we frequently do in many actions, quickness and energy and acuteness of mind or body or even of voice, we express our praise of them by one word, courage.
Younger Socrates
Y. Soc. How so?
Stranger
Str. We say acute and courageous in the first instance, also quick and courageous, and energetic and courageous; and when we apply this word as a common term applicable to all persons and actions of this class, we praise them.
Younger Socrates
Y. Soc. Yes, we do.
30
Stranger
Str. But do we not also praise the gentle type of movement in many actions?
Younger Socrates
Y. Soc. We do, decidedly.
Stranger
Str. And in doing so, do we not say the opposite of what we said about the other class?
Younger Socrates
Y. Soc. How is that?
