The Republic

Main Characters and Their Development

• Socrates: The main character of the dialogue, a philosopher who leads discussions and asks questions in pursuit of truth. His development involves deepening the understanding of justice and the ideal state.
• Glaucon: Plato's brother, one of Socrates' interlocutors. He actively participates in discussions and helps develop ideas about justice and statecraft.
• Adeimantus: Another brother of Plato, who also takes part in the dialogues. He asks questions and expresses doubts, which helps Socrates elaborate on his thoughts.
• Thrasymachus: A sophist who opposes Socrates and claims that justice is the interest of the stronger. His development involves gradually conceding to Socrates' arguments.
• Cephalus: An elderly man with whom the dialogue begins. He represents traditional views on justice, which Socrates then critiques.
• Plato: Although not a character in the dialogue, he is the author and expresses his philosophical ideas through his characters.