The Blackwell Guide to Plato's Republic consists of thirteen new essays written by both established scholars and younger researchers with the specific aim of helping readers to understand Plato's masterwork. The essays shed new light on many central features and themes of the Republic including: Plato's literary and philosophical style; his use of myths, metaphors, and allegories; his theories of justice and knowledge; and his treatment of psychology, education, myth, and the divine. Contributors include Christopher Rowe, David Keyt, Jonathan Lear, Terry Penner, Rachel Barney, and Hendrik Lorenz. Written clearly and simply, this volume is the ideal companion for readers coming to the Republic for the first time, and will also be of interest to those returning to this foundational work of the Western canon.