Reflections on the Symposium: Pausanias
Posted by P.Dan on October 8, 2008
Pausanias talks about two types of Love: heavenly and earthly. They parallel the two goddesses of Love – the heavenly Aphrodite (Uranian) and the earthly Aphrodite (Pandemus). Earthly Love is primarily fueled by an indiscriminate search for bodily pleasures. Heavenly Love is fueled by mutual understanding and respect. Heavenly Love is further broken down into: 1) “Love of a boy” which is fueled by the joining of two intelligent minds in for the sake of friendship, and 2) “Love of wisdom” which is fueled by mutual submission for the sake of attaining virtue or wisdom. These must always be free of political and financial considerations.
However, I would have to disagree with the statement that “heavenly Love” can only be achieved between two males. That is obviously a thought embedded in a male-dominated culture. However, the principle is still valid; unity of mind, mutual respect, admiration, friendship, etc., are all necessary foundations for a long-lasting and healthy relationship.
