The Allegory of the Cave

Read about Plato’s allegory of the cave. Here is one resource on the allegory. Students can also search for a different one and watch a video about the allegory.

Assignment: An allegory is a story in which characters and details can be interpreted to reveal ideas or truths about the world. Given this . . .

1.  Who are the prisoners in the cave, and what does it mean to be “in the cave?”

2.  What does it mean to “leave the cave?”  Why does it take such a long process to be able to “see the light” outside? 

3.  How might this allegory be interpreted as a comment on the meaning and importance of education?

4.  Connect this story to at least one topic, reading or discussion from this class.