Thomas Taylor (1758 - 1835), known as the `English Platonist', was the first to translate into English the complete works of Plato and Aristotle. He also translated many of the later Platonists and also some of the remaining fragments of the earliest Greek writings, such as the Orphics, and the Pythagoreans. These translations, together with his original works, represent the most comprehensive survey of the philosophical thought of European antiquity.
This series will be of great interest to several distinct groups of readers; firstly, those who are adherents of the so- called `Neo-Platonic' tradition. Taylor has always held a special place in the esteem of many of the great artists and thinkers of the last two centuries, - Blake, Shelley and Wordsworth, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Bronson Alcott, and G.R.S. Mead have all been profoundly influenced by his writings and translations. He still commands a small but enthusiastic following amongst those who have made philosophical mysticism their study.
Secondly, Taylor's place in the history of philosophy means that the many academics involved in this area will find this series an invaluable resource.
Thirdly, as the current re-evaluation of `Neo-Platonism' gathers pace in the philosophy departments of many universities, Taylor's writings will be seen as an essential aid in the process. The texts from which Taylor worked were even more incomplete than those available today; wherever he found lacunas and errors Taylor used his own understanding of the Platonists to suggest how the original would have read: modern textual research and discoveries have revealed that his suggestions and corrections were largely correct. As a result, Taylor is now beginning to enjoy a greater appreciation amongst academic circles than at any point previously.
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