The present undergraduate thesis deals with a comparison between the philosophies of Plotinus and the Valentinians, which ostensibly seem as if they are diametrically opposed. It focuses on presenting each teaching separately, and proceeds to comparing the cosmological and anthropological doctrines of Plotinus with those of the Gnostics. It also touches upon ethical questions, such as those relating to the way of life and the goal of earthly life. At the same time, it tries to show that, despite the numerous differences in their doctrines, which are due to different interpretations of the same source (Plato), there are many similarities which show that Plotinus and the Valentinians understood man and the path everyone has to follow during their lives in a similar manner. The thesis also deals with Plotinus’ tractate in which he attacks the Gnostics and tries to show that Plotinus’ reproaches are not always justified and that his presentation of Gnostic teachings are somewhat biased.
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