author
Thomas Taylor
1758–1835
Drawn to Plato, Aristotle, and the mystical side of ancient philosophy, this remarkable English scholar opened a vast world of Greek thought to readers in English. His translations helped revive interest in Neoplatonism and earned him the lasting nickname "the Platonist."
1 Audiobook
Introduction to the Philosophy and Writings of Plato
by Thomas Taylor
About the author
Born in London on May 15, 1758, Thomas Taylor became one of the most unusual classical scholars of his age. He is best known as an English translator and Neoplatonist, and is widely described as the first person to translate the complete works of Plato and Aristotle into English.
Taylor's work went far beyond those two philosophers. He also translated important texts connected with Plotinus, Porphyry, Iamblichus, Proclus, and the Orphic tradition, giving English readers access to a broad range of ancient pagan and mystical thought. His writing and translations made him an important figure in the later revival of Platonism in Britain.
Often called "Thomas Taylor the Platonist," he followed his philosophical interests with rare dedication and a strongly independent spirit. He died on November 1, 1835, but his books continued to influence readers interested in classical philosophy, esotericism, and the long afterlife of the ancient world.