book 3

Stories about the gods play a crucial role in instilling respect for divine beings, parents, and interpersonal bonds. It is essential to encourage narratives that foster courage and minimize the fear of death. Consequently, negative portrayals of the underworld, which could evoke fear and despair, should be omitted from storytelling. For instance, laments should be reserved for women and cowards, as a good man should not grieve over a friend’s death. Negative emotions should not be ascribed to heroes or gods, and examples of emotional weakness in figures like Achilles and Priam demonstrate detrimental character traits that must be avoided.

Narratives should inspire bravery while upholding the city’s values, steering clear of imitative storytelling that may weaken guardians. Instead, poetry must evoke feelings of self-discipline and honor, avoiding tales of defeat and cowardice. Additionally, rulers ought to refrain from misleading narratives unless doing so is in the public’s interest. Young men should emulate figures of bravery and self-control, while immoral behaviors must not be showcased positively in narratives to ensure a healthy upbringing for guardians.

Physical education is equally vital to musical and poetic training, fostering courage and harmony within the guardian class. Meanwhile, guardians must maintain unwavering dedication to the city's protection, enduring trials of pain, hardship, and pleasure to test their resolve. The ideal ruler embodies wisdom, bravery, and a commitment to the city's welfare while eschewing private property to prevent greed and corruption. A ruler’s education should guide them toward virtuous behavior, allowing them to remain impartial to wealth and effectively serve society.