Abstract

This chapter explores Plotinus’ concept of ‘ascent’ (anabasis, anodos). The ascent of the human soul to its divine origin is a leitmotif that runs through Plotinus’ writings, which is connected with his ideal and method of philosophical education. Attention is paid to the way in which Plotinus develops a comprehensive concept of ascent by drawing on Plato’s ideas and images. Plotinus speaks of the ascent of the soul from the sensible to the intelligible, which culminates in union with the Good itself. The upward movement of the human soul conceived as an assimilation to God turns out to be an inward movement which consists in the realization of an ever deeper self.