Ion : Kessinger Publishing : 9781161436983 : 1161436987 : 23 May 2010 : Ion is a philosophical dialogue written by Plato, one of the greatest ancient Greek philosophers. The book explores the nature of art and the role of the artist in society. The main character, Ion, is a rhapsode - a professional reciter of epic poetry - who is renowned for his ability to evoke strong emotions in his audience. The dialogue begins with Socrates, Plato's mentor, questioning Ion about his craft and how he is able to move people with his recitations. Ion claims that he is able to do so because he is divinely inspired by the Muses, the goddesses of art and literature. Socrates challenges this claim, arguing that Ion's ability is not due to divine inspiration but rather to his own skill and knowledge of the poetry he recites. Through their conversation, Socrates and Ion delve deeper into the nature of art and the role of the artist in society. They discuss the idea that art should aim to educate and impro