Introduction

Abstract

This introduction presents Olympiodorus as a committed Platonic teacher whose exegetical work combines a loyalty to his tradition with an emphasis on independent thought. It positions the chapters of this volume in four areas of interest: the profile of the philosopher that we find in Olympiodorus’ work; his interest in perception and knowledge of oneself; his concern with the form of philosophical communication; and his position vis-à-vis his Christian surroundings.