When Abraham Lincoln entered the world, the Republican Party was just a twinkle in the eye of history. The Republican party emerged from the ashes of the Whigs party, which dissolved itself not being able to take a position on slavery.Lincoln didn't just join the party; he became its poster child, snagging the title of first Republican president.

The Birth of a Republican Icon

Lincoln's nickname "Honest Abe" wasn't a campaign gimmick - he earned those stripes way back in his Illinois days. As a young lawyer, he built a reputation for being more truthful than a polygraph machine. Taking on cases for the poor and unrepresented also added to his good reputation.In a world of smooth-talking lawyers, Lincoln was refreshingly blunt.

Honest Abe: The OG Truth-Teller

Abraham Lincoln recently got portrayed as a monster hunter in books & on the big screen. Historically infused entertainment!Was Lincoln really a vampire hunter? Well, he was tall, handy with an axe, and definitely took down some metaphorical monsters. The whole vampire thing is a clever analogy for his fight against slavery, with slave owners cast as the bloodsuckers. While he never actually staked any undead, Lincoln did drive a stake through the heart of the institution of slavery. No garlic or silver bullets required!

Vampire Hunter or Metaphorical Monster Slayer?

Contrary to popular belief, Lincoln didn't come out swinging against slavery from day one of his presidency. He played it cool for the first couple of years, trying to keep the Union intact.How about the famous Emancipation Proclamation? The key document that freed all slaves in the US? It was a strategic move, dropping only after the Union scored a battlefield win at Antietam. Timing was everything - he needed to look like a bold leader, not a desperate one. Especially as the big European powers (the British and the French) were watching the US Civil War, undecided which side to lean on.

The Emancipation Proclamation: A Well-Timed Power Move

Contrary to what you might think, Lincoln didn't dash off the Gettysburg Address right after the battle's gun smoke cleared. Nope, he delivered that famous speech a full six months after the battle, during a visit to dedicate the battlefield.It's like showing up fashionably late to a party, but then giving a toast so good that everyone forgets you weren't there for the main event. Lincoln's words turned a belated appearance into one of history's most memorable speeches.

The Gettysburg Address: Fashion Late, Historically Great

Had John Wilkes Booth (the infamous assassin at the theatre) not turned Lincoln into a martyr, history might remember Honest Abe a bit differently. Sure, he freed the slaves, but he also made some controversial calls:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Going to war instead of respecting states' rights? Check.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Censoring the press and jailing political opponents? Double check.</li></ul>Lincoln's presidency was more complex than a game of 4D chess. His assassination, tragic as it was, solidified his spot in the pantheon of presidential greats.

Lincoln's Complicated Legacy

Discover some fun facts behind the stories in Paladin, the new history app from the creators of Deepstash.

books

Books

history

History

artsandculture

Society, Arts & Culture

motivationandinspiration

Motivation & Inspiration

Understand yourself and those around you.

psychology

Psychology

Prelude to Paladin

Surprising facts about the 16th president. Discover his whole story on the Paladin app.

education

Learning & Education

Prelude to Lincoln

Surprise! Cleopatra, Egypt's most famous pharaoh, was actually Greek. She ruled from Alexandria, a city founded by her Greek predecessor, Alexander the Great. And since then, her family was acting as the "face of Egypt", while secretly living Greek lives, isolated from any Egyptian cultural interference!In this sense Cleopatra was a bit of a rebel as she apparently took interest in the language and culture of her subjects. She was the first in her family to do so in about 300 years. Too bad she was also the last.

The Greek Pharaoh of Egypt

During Cleopatra's reign, Alexandria boasted a unique tourist attraction: Alexander the Great's tomb. This ancient world wonder drew powerful Romans like Caesar and Antony, eager for a brush with legendary greatness.Their visits to Alexander's resting place symbolized the deep connections between Hellenistic and Roman cultures, and highlighted Alexandria's significance in the ancient world. Cleopatra likely used these visits to enhance her own prestige and strengthen diplomatic ties.

In the Shadow of Alexander's Legacy

The legendary Library of Alexandria met a fiery fate during Cleopatra's time, thanks to a royal sibling squabble gone wrong. As Caesar battled Cleopatra's brother, the grand repository of knowledge accidentally went up in flames.This catastrophic loss of countless scrolls marked the end of an era in human learning. Lesson learned: family feuds and priceless libraries don't mix well.

The Great Library Bonfire: An Accidental Inferno

Much of Cleopatra's story comes from Roman sources – talk about a biased history lesson! As a female absolute ruler and living goddess, she embodied everything Romans loved to hate. Cue the ancient world's biggest smear campaign!They painted her as a seductress and threat when really, she was out there running an empire and serving diplomatic realness. This propaganda overshadowed her intelligence and political savvy, proving that fake news isn't just a modern problem.

Cleopatra: Victim of History's Oldest Smear Campaign

The Ptolemaic dynasty turned family drama into an extreme sport. Cleopatra's dynasty was notorious for its brutality, with family members often murdering each other for power. Cleopatra herself was not exempt from this ruthless tradition, allegedly responsible for the deaths of her two younger brothers and her sister.This familial violence, while shocking by modern standards, was often a necessity for survival in the cutthroat world of ancient politics.

The Ptolemaic Dynasty: Where Family Reunions Get Deadly

Some little known facts about one of the most famous women in history. Learn her whole story and test your knowledge in the Paladin app.

Prelude to Cleopatra

"Don't wait for the helicopters to rescue you"

In 1972, a plane carrying 45 passengers, including rugby players, crashed into the Andes. Faced with harsh conditions, 33 passengers initially survived, but bad circumstances quickly tested their resilience.

Survival Against Odds

"I had to survive at 19 so I could help others with their own 'mountains' so that they could also have a chance"

The survivors endured extreme cold, snow blindness, starvation and avalanches, creatively using the plane's wreckage and their surroundings for shelter and sustenance. They ultimately resorted to eating deceased friends and family members, highlighting their desperate will to survive.

Resourcefulness and Adaptation

Their turning point came when a transistor radio provided news of rescue operations. After realizing no help was imminent, survivors resolved to seek aid themselves, showcasing the power of determination.

Hope in Despair

As we used to say in the mountains, "Breathe. Breathe again. With every breath, you are alive." After all these years, this still the best advice I can give you: Savor your existence. Live every moment. Do not waste a breath

Three survivors embarked on a dangerous journey over the mountains without gear or experience. After a difficult trek, they encountered a local farmer who initiated a rescue mission. Their persistence led to the eventual rescue of 16 survivors.

A Journey Towards Rescue

One of the things that was destroyed when we crashed into the mountain was our connection to society. But our ties to one another grew stronger every day. What we did was stabilize the injury and stitch together new ties made of metal and glass, of strength and sensitivity, of intelligence and emotion, to protect us as a group and not as isolated individuals. We survived together, like separate organs working together to save the body as a whole.

This extraordinary story highlights themes of hope, endurance, and the resilience of the human spirit, proving that with determination and unity, even the most impossible challenges can be overcomed.

Lessons of Humanity

Discover the inspiring story of endurance and human spirit from the 1972 Andes plane crash.

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In today's video, we dive deep into the harrowing tale of survival known as the "Miracle of the Andes." A rugby team and their loved ones boarded a plane in Uruguay, expecting a short flight to Chile. But fate had other plans. Stranded in the Andes mountains after a tragic crash, these survivors faced unimaginable challenges, from brutal weather to scarce food supplies. Their determination and will to live led them to make heart-wrenching decisions. With clips from the movie "Alive" and various documentaries, we'll explore their 72-day ordeal and the incredible rescue that brought them home. Join us as we uncover the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Link to the videos mentioned - 
India's Worst Plane Crash | Only Mid-Air Collision in History | Dhruv Rathee - https://youtu.be/klnYxLLcceE?si=UJ3HGO6wsp9GCNiR
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personaldevelopment

Personal Development

videos

Videos

I love breaking down complex issues in simple words. 

Learning, Awareness and Education is the purpose of this channel. Dhruv Rathee is a Youtube educator whose expertise lies in doing simplified and objective explainers of complex topics. Educate yourself on important things which matter in your life and learn how you can make the world a better place for yourself and for everyone else! 

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Dhruv Rathee

Mystery of Flight 571 | World's Greatest Miracle | Dhruv Rathee

Socrates, the philosopher, meets Phaedrus, a young rhetoric student, outside the city walls of Athens. Socrates wants to hear Lysias's speech for himself after hearing that Phaedrus had just come from listening to the famous orator Lysias.He convinces Phaedrus, who has Lysias's speech with him, to read it out loud.

Meeting Between Socrates and Phaedrus

In his speech, Lysias argues to a young man that it is better to be physically involved with someone who isn’t in love with you than with someone who is. Lysias says that one main reason for this is that people in love aren’t thinking straight; they act based on a forced craziness instead of free will. He also tries to convince his audience that friendship, not love, is better in the long run when it comes to social benefits.

Lysias’s Argument Against Love

When Phaedrus sees that Socrates doesn’t like Lysias’s speech, he convinces his friend to give his own speech instead. Although reluctant, Socrates agrees and delivers a speech that is a parody of Lysias’s.Like Lysias, Socrates speaks as a man who wants to persuade a younger man to sleep with him, even though they’re not in a romantic relationship. He argues that love is a crazy state that occurs when desire takes over, causing people to lose their sense of right and wrong.

Socrates’s Parody of Lysias’s Speech

This craziness makes people withhold good things from their loved ones out of jealousy, and they even avoid philosophy, which is the source of all happiness. Eventually, love runs out of fuel and dies, leaving both men worse off than they were before.

As Socrates finishes his speech and is about to leave, he feels a divine push, sensing that his words have offended the gods by insulting Eros, the god of love. Socrates then gives a new speech.He takes a completely different stance, arguing that it’s wrong to reject a lover's advances just because they’re crazy. He asserts that divine madness is a gift from the gods and that love is the best kind of madness.

Socrates’s Defense of Love

Types Of Madness By Socrates1. Prophetic Madness: Inspired by Apollo, this type of madness is associated with prophecy and divination. It is the ability to foresee the future and is seen in oracles and seers.2. Ritual Madness: Associated with Dionysus, this madness relates to religious rites and rituals, particularly those involving purification and the mystic frenzy of the Bacchic cults. It is seen as a form of spiritual release and liberation from the ordinary constraints of life.

3. Poetic Madness: Linked to the Muses, this madness inspires poets, artists, and musicians, enabling them to create works of art that transcend ordinary human experience.4. Erotic Madness: Inspired by Aphrodite and Eros, this type of madness is related to love and the intense passion that drives individuals to form deep and meaningful connections. Socrates considers this the highest form of madness, as it leads the soul closer to the divine through the pursuit of true beauty and love.

but in fact the best things we have come from madness, when it is given as a gift of the god.

Socrates gives a detailed description of the soul to support this idea. He uses a metaphor, comparing the soul to a chariot with wings pulled by two horses—one noble and the other driven by base desires. Some souls can control their horses and reach the top of heaven (The Noble), where they can see eternal truths, but most are pulled back down to earth by the lowly horse (unruly). People (The novels) who remember glimpsing eternal beauty in a past life are always looking up (Eternal Truths), which makes ordinary people (lowly) think they’re crazy.

The Metaphor of the Chariot

The Role of Philosophy in LoveSocrates explains that a soul interested in philosophy will work hard to control its base horse by being self-disciplined and remembering the beauty of heaven. After much practice, the lowly horse is finally tamed, and the lover has a passionate relationship with his beloved that focuses on the beauty of thought rather than physical desire. A soul can only be directed toward heaven in this type of relationship, making it better to be with someone who loves you than someone who doesn’t.

Phaedrus agrees that Socrates’ second speech is better than Lysias’s, but he can’t quite explain why. This leads Socrates and Phaedrus to discuss rhetoric and the difference between good and bad speech.Socrates begins by saying that speech should concern truth, not just things that seem convincing. He then argues that if rhetoric is the leading of the soul by means of speech, then a speaker needs to know what the soul is.

Socrates and Phaedrus on Rhetoric

They examine Lysias’s speech together, noting how he failed to properly identify his subject from the start. Socrates stresses that clear meaning is crucial and ties it to the philosophical method of dialectic, which involves asking questions one at a time to gain more understanding.

Critique of Lysias’s Speech

He carefully divided the concept of madness in his own speech to help his audience grasp his point that love is a good form of madness. Additionally, he argues that the soul is central to the practice of rhetoric.Socrates asserts that someone who has only learned rhetorical techniques cannot claim to be an expert in the art of rhetoric unless they know how to apply rhetorical remedies to specific souls in specific situations.

Socrates’s Rhetorical Method

Finally, Socrates and Phaedrus discuss the appropriateness of writing speeches. Socrates views writing as a relatively new and mixed tool because it makes wisdom appear more impressive while actually diminishing its reality. This is because writing is silent and lifeless; it can’t answer questions or face challenges. Thus, Philosophical dialectic is superior because it is tailored to each soul and leads that soul to knowledge through interaction.

Writing vs. Philosophical Dialectic

&quot;A superb translation that captures the rhetorical brilliance of the Greek. . . . The translation is faithful in the very best sense: it reflects both the meaning and the beauty of the Greek text. . . . The footnotes are always helpful, never obtrusive. A one-page outline is useful since there are no editorial additions to mark major divisions in the dialogue. An appendix containing fragments of early Greek love poetry helps the reader appreciate the rich, and perhaps elusive, meaning of eros. . . . The entire Introduction is crisply written, and the authors' erudition shines throughout, without a trace of pedantry. . . . this is an excellent book that deservedly should find wide circulation for many years to come.&quot; --Tim Mahoney, University of Texas at Arlington

philosophy

Philosophy

religionandspirituality

Religion & Spirituality

Plato

Alexander Nehamas

Paul Woodruff

Phaedrus

Will Durant views history as an invaluable laboratory for understanding human nature. Just as scientists conduct experiments to study natural phenomena, historians can analyze past events to discern patterns, causes, and effects of human behavior.Durant emphasizes that history provides a vast dataset of human experiences, allowing us to:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">identify recurring trends</li><li class="ql-align-justify">test theories</li><li class="ql-align-justify">develop a deeper understanding of our species.</li></ul>History offers a unique opportunity to study humanity on a massive scale, providing a rich tapestry of data from which to draw conclusions about the human condition.

History as the Only Human Laboratory

Durant approached history with a desire to find underlying patterns & principles, much like scientists seek laws in nature.Unlike the precise laws of physics, the "laws" of history are more like tendencies or probabilities. Human behavior, influenced by a complex interplay of factors, is less deterministic than the physical world.Durant's "laws" are often generalisations based on extensive historical observation. They offer insights into human nature, societal dynamics, and the cyclical nature of history.

Laws of History vs. Scientific Laws

Humans, like all living beings, are driven by a fundamental instinct for survival and reproduction. This often manifests in competition for resources, territory, and power. On various levels: individuals, groups, nations.Cooperation arose to facilitate better competition: "Two stand a better chance against one."ex: The Industrial Revolution sparked intense competition among nations for economic dominance, leading to imperialism and colonization.

History Law 1: Life is Competition

The concentration of power in the hands of a few individuals or groups often leads to abuse of that power. This can take many forms, including corruption, tyranny, and oppression. The desire to maintain or increase power can override ethical considerations. Either way, power is a constant in humans existence. ex: The Roman Republic was set-up as a mechanism to guard against the absolute power of a king. But they still ended up with an emperor at the helm of an empire.

History Law 2: Power Corrupts

The distribution of wealth within societies tends to become increasingly unequal over time. Societies usually start with unregulated economic freedom, leading to the economic development. As time goes by the inequalities lead to restrictions and regulations, slowing down grow. Ongoing inequalities usually lead to revolutions and bloodshed.ex: France became the powerhouse of Europe during the the century of Ludovic XIV. But since there were very few haves and many hav-nots, his grandson, Ludovic XVI, lost his head during the French Revolution.

History Law 3: Economic Inequality is a Persistent Challenge

Civilizations follow a cyclical pattern of growth, peak, decline, and eventual collapse. Factors contributing to decline include economic problems, social unrest, external threats, and loss of cultural vitality.However, the remnants of collapsed civilizations often contribute to the rise of new ones.ex: Egypt was amongst the first societies to grow into an empire. They survived the Bronze Age collapse, changed many rulers over thousands of years. But ultimately they fell when Cleopatra, their Greek queen, died and Egypt became a Roman province.

History Law 4: All Civilizations Rise and Fall

Religion has been a powerful force shaping human societies, cultures, and conflicts. It has served as a unifying element, as it allowed for large groups of people to come together in worshiping gods. But also a divisive factor, influencing laws, ethics, and social structures designed to separate people into groups.ex: Early Christians were blamed for all the bad events (like the burning of Rome) and were frequently discriminated against. 300 years later the Empire became Christian. And 800 years from that the Christian priests were burning infidels.

History Law 5: Religion is a Catalyst for Unity & Conflict

Education is crucial for societal progress, innovation, and the development of critical thinking. Investing in education can lead to economic growth, improved health, and reduced poverty. Conversely, a lack of education can hinder a society's potential.ex: The Califate was the knowledge center of the world before the turn of the millennia. Islamic scholars advanced math, philosophy and art. It allowed them to rule over vast lands. However the roles reversed as the West became more interested in knowledge and Islam banned most of it outside of the Coran.

History Law 6: Knowledge is Power

History doesn't repeat itself, but it rhymes. Learn from the past, shape a better future.

Lessons of History

Will and Ariel Durant, giant historians, condense the lessons of thousand of years of history into a few lessons that define human nature.

A concise survey of the culture and civilization of mankind, The Lessons of History is the result of a lifetime of research from Pulitzer Prize–winning historians Will and Ariel Durant. With their accessible compendium of philosophy and social progress, the Durants take us on a journey through history, exploring the possibilities and limitations of humanity over time. Juxtaposing the great lives, ideas, and accomplishments with cycles of war and conquest, the Durants reveal the towering themes of history and give meaning to our own.

William James Durant was a prolific American writer, historian, and philosopher. He is best known for the 11-volume The Story of Civilization, written in collaboration with his wife Ariel and published between 1935 and 1975. He was earlier noted for his book, The Story of Philosophy, written in 1926, which was considered "a groundbreaking work that helped to popularize philosophy."They were awarded the Pulitzer Prize for literature in 1967 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1977.

Will Durant

Ariel Durant is an accomplished writer whose work has resonated with readers around the world. Ariel Durant has published several books that explore a range of topics, from fiction to nonfiction, and has received critical acclaim for the ability to weave compelling narratives. Ariel Durant's writing style is known for its depth and authenticity, and has earned quite a loyal following of readers.

Ariel Durant

The Lessons of History

We can't really understand what's going on now without knowing what happened before. It's like building a house – you need a strong foundation. Even scientists need to know about history to make sense of their experiments. They're part of a big story, just like everyone else. 
Remember Don Quixote? He is a great example of how books can mess with your head! He reads a bunch of old stories about knights and princesses and starts believing he's one. He dresses up in armour and goes around fighting windmills because he thinks they're giants.It's like his brain got stuck in a book!

We can't understand ourselves without our past

Imagine history as a roadmap. It shows us where we've been, the paths we've taken, and the detours we've made. By understanding this map, we can better predict where we might end up and plan our route accordingly.
History is our guide to the future. By studying the past, we learn from mistakes, understand the present, and find inspiration for tomorrow. It helps us avoid repeating errors and build a better world.

We tweak the history and history shapes us

History inspires us. Learning about people who overcame challenges or made great achievements can motivate us to create a better future. It shows us what's possible.
Elon Musk, for example, uses historical examples to shape his leadership style, suggesting that he believes the lessons learned from figures like Napoleon are applicable to corporate life. For example: Musk's commitment to being physically present in his companies' operations mirrors Napoleon's strategy of leading from the front.

History can be the inspiration in your life

“A generation which ignores history has no past and no future.”

History is like this super long experiment on being human. You know, figuring out what works and what doesn’t. It’s crazy to think that everything happening now is based on stuff that happened way back when.

scienceandnature

Science & Nature

Why History Matters

Phaedo is a narrative about the last few hours before Socrates was put to death in prison. As a friend of Socrates, Phaedo tells the story. He meets Echecrates, another scholar, after witnessing Socrates drink poison hemlock. Socrates and his friends were sitting with him in jail while he argued, among other things, that the soul lives forever. Phaedo describes what they said to each other.

Introduction

Here’s what Phaedo recounts:Socrates tells his friends what seems to be a farewell. Even Crito wishes him well and bids him farewell, telling him that if he is wise, he should follow him as soon as possible. When Simmias hears this, he is shocked that Socrates would say this, implying that one should hope to follow him to death as soon as possible. In response, Socrates says that anyone who takes part in philosophy worthily should be ready to die. He agrees, though, that killing oneself is not right.

Socrates’ Farewell

Socrates explains that it is sometimes better to die than to live, and when Simmias asks how he can believe that philosophers should accept death but not suicidal thoughts, Socrates clarifies that people, unlike gods, should not decide when they die. Simmias and Cebes argue that since the gods rule over humans, it does not make sense for someone to look forward to death, as it would mean losing the guidance of a wise master. Socrates responds that he believes the soul is permanent, meaning that people will continue to serve the gods after they die.

Philosophers and Death

Socrates says that those who practice philosophy properly are preparing for death. He argues that the body and soul are separate, using this to show that living without being affected by the body is preparing for death. Socrates contends that the physical world is full of distractions because our senses are not always accurate and cannot give us a true picture of reality. Therefore, philosophers free the soul from the body's influence so it can grasp the truth. Since death is merely the separation of soul from the body, living without the body's distractions is essentially preparing for death.

Philosophy Is Preparation for Death

Socrates uses the idea that the soul lives on after death to argue that he has no reason to fear dying. He believes that death will finally allow him to find the knowledge he has been seeking, as his body will no longer distract him. Simmias counters that most people believe the soul disperses like breath or smoke upon death and that believing in the soul’s continuation requires considerable faith. Socrates responds by invoking an ancient theory that souls come from the underworld, suggesting that souls must exist there, as they would not return if they did not exist.

Socrates’ Views on Immortality

He explains that things come from their opposites, like how something becomes taller from being shorter and vice versa. Socrates argues that life and death are opposites that come from one another—being alive comes from being dead, and being dead comes from being alive. These changes balance each other out. He adds that if there were no corresponding process to waking from sleep, everyone would sleep forever. Similarly, if everyone died and never came back to life, no one would be alive. Simmias agrees and says he no longer worries about the soul’s immortality.

Life and Death as Opposites

Despite agreeing, Socrates present a different view on the soul eternal existence He explain that people do not learn new things but recollect knowledge from past lives Socrates assert that the mind knows about the Forms—unchanging ideas not limited by the physical world. Simmias thinks of the idea of equality when he considers two things of the same size even though they are not perfectly equal. Socrates says this is because Simmias knows the Form of equality from his soul prior knowledge. If the Form exist and the soul has known them in past live, then the soul must have existed before birth

Theory of Recollection

Simmias agrees with Socrates that the soul exists before birth but not necessarily that it lives on after death. Socrates responds that Forms are non-composite and unchanging, while real things, like people or clothes, are composite and always changing. He divides reality into the visible (the body) and the invisible (the soul). The soul becomes wise by rejecting the body’s desires. Socrates argues that the invisible part of life, being divine and deathless, contrasts with the body, which dissolves easily. A pure soul, gained through knowledge, will dwell with the gods after death.

Socrates on Forms and Reality

However, if the soul was too involved with the physical world, it would suffer in the underworld and return as a lower being.

Simmias and Cebes express doubts but do not want to trouble Socrates, who is about to die. Socrates encourages them to voice their thoughts, so Simmias critiques Socrates’ distinction between visible and invisible aspects of life. Simmias argue that one could liken the soul to a harmony produced by a lyre, suggesting that even if the lyre is broken, the harmony (soul) would still exist. Socrates’ idea, he believes, does not make sense because harmony depends on the lyre.

Simmias And Cebes Analogy And Socrates Responses

Cebes uses the analogy of a weaver and his cloak, suggesting that the soul, like the cloak, might wear out and die with the body. The soul might go through multiple bodies but eventually could die with one of them. Socrates appreciates Simmias and Cebes’ objections, as they provide him an opportunity to clarify his views. He addresses Simmias idea of the soul as harmony by reaffirming the theory of recollection, which posits that the soul existed before the body. Socrates adds that the soul is not a product of the body and has always existed independently.

He (Socrates) argues that wickedness is discord, and something cannot be both itself and its opposite simultaneously.

Socrates responds to Cebes’ point about the soul’s general toughness by saying that it does not prove immortality. He recalls pondering the causes of generation and destruction in his youth and believed, as Anaxagoras suggested, that the mind directed and caused everything. Socrates’ own theory posits that things follow Forms that do not change. He explains that beauty itself is a Form, and through beauty, beautiful things are made beautiful.

This leads him to his final argument for the soul’s immortality: nothing can be both itself and its opposite at the same time. Since death is the opposite of life, the soul cannot admit death because it inherently brings life. After presenting his final case, Socrates shares his vision of the afterlife, where the souls of the good go to a pure dwelling place, others are punished and purified, and some are sent to the underworld, never to return. Socrates finishes his discourse by drinking the poison hemlock.

Socrates’ Vision of the Afterlife

He walks around his cell a few times to let the poison take effect and then lies down while his friends mourn. He tells them not to be sad because his journey to the afterlife is not a sorrowful one. In his final words, he tells Crito to make an offering to Asclepius and not to forget this duty.

For I have heard that a man should die in silence. So calm yourselves and bear up

After an interval of some months or years, and at Phlius, a town of Peloponnesus, the tale of the last hours of Socrates is narrated to Echecrates and other Phliasians by Phaedo the 'beloved disciple.' The Dialogue necessarily takes the form of a narrative, because Socrates has to be described acting as well as speaking. The minutest particulars of the event are interesting to distant friends, and the narrator has an equal interest in them.

politics

Politics

Plató

Phaedo

1.	Rin’s Humble Beginnings	2.	The Keju Examination	3.	Admission to Sinegard Academy	4.	Struggles and Discrimination	5.	Discovering Shamanic Abilities	6.	Training Under Jiang	7.	War with the Federation of Mugen	8.	The Siege of Khurdalain	9.	Commanding the Cike	10.	The Ankhiluun Massacre	11.	The Role of the Pantheon	12.	Rin’s Relationship with Altan	13.	The Destruction of Speer	14.	Betrayal and Revenge	15.	Embracing the Phoenix	16.	The Aftermath of War	17.	Rin’s Transformation

Topics You’ll Master Today

Rin, a war orphan, is adopted by an abusive family of opium dealers in the Rooster Province. Desperate to escape her grim future, she studies rigorously for the Keju, the empire-wide examination. 	“War orphan. Opium peddler. Rural peasant. Sinegard cadet.”

Rin’s Humble Beginnings

Rin’s dedication pays off when she aces the Keju exam, securing a place at the prestigious Sinegard Academy. This achievement marks the beginning of her transformative journey. 	“She had passed the Keju. She had left her village. She was at Sinegard.”

The Keju Examination

At Sinegard, Rin faces severe discrimination due to her dark skin and peasant background. Despite these challenges, she remains determined to succeed and prove her worth. 	“She was nobody, but she had worked and fought and bled to get there.”

Admission to Sinegard Academy

Rin’s struggles intensify as she deals with elitism and harsh training. Her resilience and fierce determination set her apart from her peers. “She had to prove to herself that she belonged there.”

Struggles & Discrimination

Rin discovers her shamanic potential, which allows her to communicate with gods. She realizes she can channel the power of the Phoenix, a vengeful fire god. “The gods chose us because we are already mad.”

Discovering Shamanic Abilities

She trains under Jiang, an eccentric professor who helps her understand and control her shamanic abilities, though his methods are unconventional. 	“Jiang taught her to see the world not as it was, but as it could be.”

Training under Jiang

The Federation of Mugen invades Nikan, plunging the nation into war. Rin’s training is put to the test as she faces the brutal realities of combat. 	“War does not determine who is right—only who is left.”

War with the Federation of Mugen

Rin plays a crucial role in the defense of Khurdalain. The horrors of war leave her scarred and determined to end the conflict by any means necessary. 	“She would not let the Federation win. She would not let them take everything.”

The Siege of Khurdalain

Rin becomes the leader of the Cike, a group of shamanic warriors. Her leadership is tested as she grapples with the moral ambiguities of warfare. 	“To be a leader is to choose who lives and who dies.”

Commanding the Cike

Rin witnesses the massacre at Ankhiluun, a traumatic event that deepens her hatred for the Federation and solidifies her resolve to seek vengeance. 	“The price of vengeance was always blood.”

The Ankhilunn Massacre

The Pantheon, a council of gods, influences the world of mortals. Rin’s interactions with the gods reveal the complex and often destructive nature of divine power. 	“The gods were not benevolent. They were weapons of mass destruction.”

The Role of the Pantheon

Rin’s complex relationship with Altan, the last of the Speerlies, shapes much of her journey. Their bond is marked by both deep connection and intense conflict. 	“Altan was her anchor and her abyss.”

Rin’s Relationship with Altan

Rin learns about the destruction of Speer by the Federation, fueling her rage and desire for retribution. This event becomes a driving force in her quest for power. 	“Speer was gone, but its fire still burned within her.”

The Destruction of Speer

Rin faces betrayal from those she trusts, leading her to embrace darker aspects of her power. Her quest for revenge becomes all-consuming. 	“Betrayal was the truest form of loyalty in a world at war.”

Betrayal & Revenge

Rin fully embraces the Phoenix’s power, despite the destructive consequences. Her transformation is complete as she becomes a force of vengeance. 	“To summon the Phoenix was to court madness, but she had no other choice.”

Embracing the Phoneix

The war’s end leaves Nikan in ruins and Rin grappling with the cost of her actions. Her journey reveals the devastating impact of absolute power. 	“Victory came at the price of her soul.”

The Aftermath of War

Rin’s journey transforms her from a powerless peasant into a powerful shaman and leader. Her story is one of resilience, sacrifice, and the haunting consequences of power. 	“She was the warlord now, and her enemies would burn.”

Rin’s Transformation

<ol><li>Transformation Journey: Rin’s journey from a powerless war orphan to a powerful shaman and leader is central to the narrative.</li></ol>	2.	Overcoming Adversity: Her success in the Keju & struggles at Sinegard highlight her determination to overcome barriers.	3.	Embracing Power: Discovering & mastering her shamanic abilities showcases her growth and the cost of power.	4.	Leadership Challenges: Leading the Cike & facing moral dilemmas reflect the complexities of leadership in wartime.	5.	Impact of War: The brutal realities and traumas of war deeply affect Rin, driving her actions & decisions.

6.	Vengeance and Betrayal: Themes of vengeance and betrayal underscore the personal and political conflicts Rin navigates.	7.	Divine Influence: Interactions with the Pantheon reveal the destructive nature of divine power.	8.	Complex Relationships: Her relationships, with Altan, shape her journey and show the cost of war.	9.	Consequences of Power: Embracing the Phoenix’s power leads to both triumph and devastation.	10.	Resilience and Sacrifice: Rin’s story is a testament to resilience and the sacrifices required to achieve and wield power, with a legacy marked by destruction & transformation.

A tale of magic, war, and power: journey with Rin as she transforms from orphan to powerful shaman.

“I have no doubt this will end up being the best fantasy debut of the year [...] I have absolutely no doubt that [Kuang’s] name will be up there with the likes of Robin Hobb and N.K. Jemisin.” -- BooknestA Library Journal, Paste Magazine, Vulture, BookBub, and ENTROPY Best Books pick!Washington Post "5 Best Science Fiction and Fantasy Novel" pick!A Bustle "30 Best Fiction Books" pick!A brilliantly imaginative talent makes her exciting debut with this epic historical military fantasy, inspired by the bloody history of China’s twentieth century and filled with treachery and magic, in the tradition of Ken Liu’s Grace of Kings and N.K. Jemisin’s Inheritance Trilogy.When Rin aced the Keju—the Empire-wide test to find the most talented youth to learn at the Academies—it was a shock to everyone: to the test officials, who couldn’t believe a war orphan from Rooster Province could pass without cheating; to Rin’s guardians, who believed they’d finally be able to marry her off and further their criminal enterprise; and to Rin herself, who realized she was finally free of the servitude and despair that had made up her daily existence. That she got into Sinegard—the most elite military school in Nikan—was even more surprising.But surprises aren’t always good.Because being a dark-skinned peasant girl from the south is not an easy thing at Sinegard. Targeted from the outset by rival classmates for her color, poverty, and gender, Rin discovers she possesses a lethal, unearthly power—an aptitude for the nearly-mythical art of shamanism. Exploring the depths of her gift with the help of a seemingly insane teacher and psychoactive substances, Rin learns that gods long thought dead are very much alive—and that mastering control over those powers could mean more than just surviving school.For while the Nikara Empire is at peace, the Federation of Mugen still lurks across a narrow sea. The militarily advanced Federation occupied Nikan for decades after the First Poppy War, and only barely lost the continent in the Second. And while most of the people are complacent to go about their lives, a few are aware that a Third Poppy War is just a spark away . . .Rin’s shamanic powers may be the only way to save her people. But as she finds out more about the god that has chosen her, the vengeful Phoenix, she fears that winning the war may cost her humanity . . . and that it may already be too late.

The Poppy War

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