Charmides

work by Plato

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June 24, 2026

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The Charmides is an early dialogue by Plato, featuring Socrates in conversation with Critias and Charmides. The dialogue explores the nature of temperance and self-knowledge. It begins by examining temperance as a behavior, such as "quietness," and then attempts to define the underlying state that leads to it. This exploration ultimately breaks down into complex questions about the reflexive application of knowledge. Like other early Socratic dialogues, the Charmides aims to show that individuals often lack true understanding of important concepts and to encourage philosophical reflection.12

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Plato
Early dialogues of Plato
In the Charmides, Socrates discusses temperance and self-knowledge with Critias and Charmides; at the fictional early date of the dialogue, Charmides is still a promising youth. The dialogue moves from an account in terms of behaviour (“temperance is a kind of quietness”) to an attempt to specify…
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In the Charmides, Socrates discusses temperance and self-knowledge with Critias and Charmides; at the fictional early date of the dialogue, Charmides is still a promising youth. The dialogue moves from an account in terms of behaviour (“temperance is a kind of quietness”) to an attempt to specify…
Read More