The aim of this paper is analysis the myth in Plato’s work based on the paper of Ludwig Edelstein. In his work, Edelstein presents to us the reason why Plato uses the myth and the function it plays in his philosophy. The author thus contributes to the development of thought on the subject and provides a lever for later studies on the myth in Plato. Finally, we will present a critical conclusion on the subject.

It has been commonplace to maintain of the phenomenon that occurred during classical times, the change from relying on myth to trusting in reason: (1) that the emergence of philosophy from myth was marked by an abrupt discontinuity; (2) that mythical thinking was left behind once philosophy was invented or discovered; and (3) that the ancient Greeks were the agents of this miracle. This paper suggests that the so-called “Greek miracle” was, in fact, a miracle manqué and, more importantly, that (...) close examination of this failed miracle offers valuable insight into the philosophical crisis facing the world today. (shrink)