The Winged Soul

About the Book

Greek history during the stormy fourth century B.C. bears eloquent testimony to human greatness and perversity. In this imagined autobiography we follow the philosopher Plato (427-347 B.C.) from the war-torn years of his childhood in Athens through the turmoil of his youth to the death of his great teacher, Socrates. We participate in his middle years and accompany him on travels to Africa, Aegean islands, Egypt, and Italy. Back in Athens, we enjoy with him the relatively tranquil life of his later years. Throughout Plato’s eight decades we witness the calamitous events of a turbulent century that shaped his views about human nature and government. His experiences in Athens, and his attempts to create a better world in Syracuse, seem almost unbelievable.

About the Author

John Kunkel grew up in Southern California and attended Pomona College. After graduate study at the University of Michigan he taught social psychology at three universities. During this time he became interested in the Jesuits’ famous attempt to create an ideal society among the Guaraní Indians of Paraguay. He visited the area twice and experienced the country on extensive local bus trips. After his retirement John Kunkel moved to San Diego, where he continues to pursue his interests in South American history and culture.