The Republic
The Republic is Plato's longest dialogue and the foundation of Western political philosophy. Socrates is challenged to show that justice is worth having for its own sake, and in answer he and his companions build an ideal city in words, with its three classes, its philosopher rulers, its censorship of poetry and its common ownership among the guardians. Along the way come the allegory of the cave, the theory of forms, the parable of the ship of state and the myth of Er. Whether read as a serious blueprint or as a provocation, the book has been argued with for twenty-four centuries. This edition presents Benjamin Jowett's translation together with his introduction and analysis. It is available to read online in your browser on Vinteuil, with the first chapter free.
Start reading right away, without signing up. The complete text is included in Vinteuil Reading, or yours forever with a one-time purchase.
Frequently asked questions about The Republic
The Republic by Plato can be read online on Vinteuil, directly in your browser. The first chapter is free for everyone; the complete book is included in Vinteuil Reading ($4.99/month or $39.99/year) or yours forever for $2.99.
Can I read The Republic online?
Yes. The Republic opens right on this page, in a reader designed for long reading: adjustable text size, light, sepia and dark themes, a clickable table of contents and your place saved when you are signed in. No download or app is needed.
Is The Republic free to read on Vinteuil?
The first chapter of The Republic is free, without an account. To read the whole book, either buy its online reading for $2.99 (£2.99 in the UK) and keep it forever, or subscribe to Vinteuil Reading for $4.99/month (£4.99/month in the UK) or $39.99/year, with 1 month free for new subscribers. The subscription opens every book in the library and can be cancelled at any time.
Is The Republic in the public domain?
Yes. The Republic by Plato is a public-domain work, here in the translation by Benjamin Jowett. Vinteuil offers a carefully prepared digital edition made for comfortable reading on screen.
How long does it take to read The Republic?
About 14 h 25 min of reading, at an average reading pace. Your place is saved automatically when you are signed in, so you can read in several sittings and on several devices.
What kind of book is The Republic?
The Republic by Plato is filed under "Science Fiction & Fantasy" in the Vinteuil library.
