Listen to metaxu: the non-discursive sounding elements of the Symposium

Abstract

In this study we suggest a perspective on the reading of Plato’s Symposium focusing on the non-discursive sound elements that can be found in it. This proposal could potentially be extended to other Platonic dialogues, taking into account their harmony. It is key to notice the place where they appear, what scenes they introduce, interrupt or conclude. Flutes, commotion, hiccups. The Platonic irony is attended to with the sense of hearing moved by the suspicion that these elements play an important role that produces variations or displacements in the order of the dialogue, and that were used by Plato intentionally. This study will simply list some of the sounds, noises and significant silences that should be taken into account in the case of Symposium, focusing on the analysis of Aristophanes’ hiccups. In addition, a proposal is suggested for the future study of the silence of Socrates during Diotima’s speech, and to the commotion and loud knocking that Alcibiades produces when he arrives to Agathon’s home.

Keywords: Alcibiades, Aristophanes, commotion, harmony, hiccup, irony, noise, silence, sound, Socrates, Symposium.