Tutor profile: Charles S.

Broadly, what is Plato's theory of Forms?

Plato posited, through Socrates, that all of physical reality is derived from ideal 'forms' that exist in a "third realm." Physical reality is a imperfect representation of the the ideal forms. For example, all tables fit into the category of "table" because they partake in the ideal form of a table (i.e., the perfect table).

What was the First Triumvirate and what implications did it have for Ancient Rome?

The First Triumvirate consisted of Julius Caesar, Pompey, and Crassus. This was a political alliance formed to consolidate power in Ancient Rome and marked the end of the Roman Republic.

To what extent are the idea from the Enlightenment reflected in the American Founding?

The ideas of the Enlightenment are reflected in Jefferson's appropriation of Lockean language in the Declaration of Independence. It is also apparent in The Federalist, which borrows from Montesquieu's The Spirit of the Laws regarding the separation of powers and use of the checks and balances.