Plato’s Symposium depicts a friendly contest of extemporaneous speeches given by a group of notable men attending a banquet. The men include the philosopher Socrates, the general and political figure Alcibiades, and playwright Aristophanes. The speeches are to be given in praise of Eros, the god of Love, whom is recognized as a force capable of inspiring courage, valor, great deeds and works - ultimately vanquishing man's fear of Death.