Page - 593 - in The Complete Plato

SOCRATES: And if this supposed likeness of our faces is a matter of any interest to us, we should enquire whether he who says that we are alike is a painter or not? THEAETETUS: Certainly we should. SOCRATES: And is Theodorus a painter? THEAETETUS: I never heard that he was. SOCRATES: Is he a geometrician? THEAETETUS: Of course he is, Socrates. SOCRATES: And is he an astronomer and calculator and musician, and in general an educated man? THEAETETUS: I think so. SOCRATES: If, then, he remarks on a similarity in our persons, either by way of praise or blame, there is no particular reason why we should attend to him. THEAETETUS: I should say not. SOCRATES: But if he praises the virtue or wisdom which are the mental endowments of either of us, then he who hears the praises will naturally desire to examine him who is praised: and he again should be willing to exhibit himself. THEAETETUS: Very true, Socrates. SOCRATES: Then now is the time, my dear Theaetetus, for me to examine, and for you to exhibit; since although Theodorus has praised many a citizen and stranger in my hearing, never did I hear him praise any one as he has been praising you. THEAETETUS: I am glad to hear it, Socrates; but what if he was only in jest? SOCRATES: Nay, Theodorus is not given to jesting; and I cannot allow you to retract your consent on any such pretence as that. If you do, he will have to swear to his words; and we are perfectly sure that no one will be found to impugn him. Do not be shy then, but stand to your word. THEAETETUS: I suppose I must, if you wish it. SOCRATES: In the first place, I should like to ask what you learn of Theodorus: something of geometry, perhaps? THEAETETUS: Yes. 593