Following the death of the Elder in 367 BCE, Dion invited Plato back to tutor the immature Dionysius the Younger. James Romm explains that Dion hoped Plato could transform the new ruler into an enlightened, constitutional monarch rather than a tyrant. Des

Following the death of the Elder in 367 BCE, Dion invited Plato back to tutor the immature Dionysius the Younger. James Romm explains that Dion hoped Plato could transform the new ruler into an enlightened, constitutional monarch rather than a tyrant. Despite Plato's efforts to reform the court's lifestyle, the regime remained characterized by 90-day drinking parties and excessive wealth. The relationship soured when Dionysius intercepted a letter Dion sent to Carthaginian diplomats, viewing it as betrayal. Consequently, Dion was banished, and Plato was held under house arrest until being rescued by the philosopher-leader Archytas. (3/8)
1245 THE ACADEMY