“Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies.”
- 384 BC – 322 BC
- Originating from Macedonia in ancient Greece
- Philosopher and scientist, founder of the Lyceum academy
- A student of Plato, he constructed systematic knowledge in logic, biology, politics, ethics, etc., and had a major impact on the development of Western thought and science
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Quote
“Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies.”
Explanation
In this quote, Aristotle presents a romantic ideal of love as a profound and inseparable connection between two individuals. He suggests that when two people love each other deeply, they become so closely aligned in their thoughts, emotions, and desires that they essentially share a single soul. This concept highlights the unity of love, where two people are not just physically together, but spiritually and emotionally bound. They become extensions of each other, with their lives intertwined in such a way that their identities and purposes are closely connected. The metaphor of a single soul inhabiting two bodies conveys the depth of love, suggesting that it goes beyond mere companionship or affection to a shared existence.
This idea of love as a deep connection between two people continues to be a prevalent theme in modern romantic relationships. It reflects the idea that true love is not just about affection or attraction, but about creating a deep emotional bond where both individuals feel as though they are part of a greater whole. This can be seen in many modern concepts of soulmates or partnered unity, where couples often speak of a shared purpose or a synchrony in their lives.
For example, in long-lasting relationships, couples often describe feeling like they complete each other, where their emotional, intellectual, and even spiritual lives are so interconnected that the idea of being apart seems almost impossible. Aristotle’s view on love captures this profound connection, which goes beyond external affection to the shared essence and understanding that characterizes the most intimate and enduring relationships.
