“Allegory of the Cave” The prison dwelling and the visible realm are compared to one another in the first sentence of the text. The realm is dark, with the exception of a small, well-kept fire. This burning fire is almost a representation of the burning sun that shines in the outer world. This sun is interpreted as the “idea of the good.” The fire inside the cave helps guide the prisoners to use their senses. …showed first 75 words of 502 total…

…showed last 75 words of 502 total…world. He has not yet been able to, up to this point, see that world, full of both ideas and forms. In order to shed light on the newly found knowledge, goodness is essential. The Idea of the Good (highest idea) is the sun. In order to see, three entities, including light, are needed. When truly enlightened, you are then able to pass it on to others, in turn, making yourself an even better person.