Visitor Voices – What is Beauty? The Good, The Bad and The Ugly, from Plato to Adichie

The ancient Greeks were known for their love of getting together in a relaxed environment, breaking bread and arguing philosophy, politics, the meaning of life and everything in between. Inspired by these ancient symposia, Visitor Voices invites you to explore some of life's age-old questions from a modern perspective, in a casual group environment.

These fortnightly discussions will unleash your inner philosopher as Museum staff guide a Socratic discussion among a small group of participants. Socratic discussions place emphasis on a shared, equal dialogue – staff will open conversation with thought-provoking questions which participants are encouraged to discuss and ask questions in return, creating a back and forth dialogue between institution and visitor.

Each session will delve into a new theme, with no prior knowledge required – just a sense of curiosity and a willingness to join in! Tickets include Museum general admission.

Please note, due to the discussion of mature themes, this program is recommended for audiences aged 15 years and older.

Session 5 – What is Beauty? The Good, The Bad and The Ugly, From Plato to Adichie

How has ancient Greece played a part in our understanding of beauty toady? The history of beauty – from the writings of the philosopher Plato to fourth-wave feminist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie – has shaped our ways of seeing ourselves and others. Explore how the ancients constructed concepts of what is beautiful in art and in life; question why we subscribe to them, and where there is cause to disrupt concepts of beauty on our own terms; and try your hand at an ancient-style ode to what you consider beautiful.

Explore other sessions:

• Session 1  – Sat 1 July – Memento Mori: The Art of Living and Dying
• Session 2 – Sat 15 July – Aphrodisia: Sexuality, Pleasure & Identity
• Session 3 – Sat 29 July – Being Young and Growing Old in the Ancient World
• Session 4 – Sat 12 Aug – Ideal Cities, Ideal Lives? Ancient and Modern Urbanity