How did Plotinus teach philosophy in Rome?

In Rome, Plotinus led an informal, non-academic circle of friends and admirers rather than a structured school. His teaching method was scholastic in nature: he would have passages from commentaries on Plato or Aristotle read aloud, followed by an exposition of his own views.1

These meetings were characterized by a friendly atmosphere that encouraged unlimited discussion, where philosophical difficulties were debated until resolved. Plotinus was known for being "present at once to himself and others," maintaining a balance between his deep inward concentration and his availability to those around him.12

Beyond formal teaching, he wrote treatises for his inner circle—later collected as the Enneads—to assist his closest collaborators. His life in Rome was marked by both his philosophical work and practical responsibilities, such as acting as an arbitrator in disputes and serving as a guardian for the children of his aristocratic friends. Ultimately, his teaching was an extension of his own life, which he dedicated to the quest for mystical union with the Good through the exercise of pure intelligence.12