In this paper I discuss the pre-cosmic state of elements in the Timaeus, when they existed as “vestiges of their own nature” (53b2). In the Timaeus, Plato distinguishes between two states of the elements: pre-cosmic (47e-53c) and cosmic (53c-57d). While the cosmic state of the elements has been extensively analyzed, the pre-cosmic state remains less clear and continues to be the topic of ongoing scholarly debate. Some scholars share the opinion that in the pre-cosmic state of the world the elements were bodies having certain stereometric forms (e. g. Archer-Hind, Taylor, Mortley, Mohr, Miller etc.). While other scholars believe that there were no bodies, but some forces and qualities placed in the Receptacle (e. g. Cornford, Zeyl, Waterfield etc.). I would like to demonstrate that the first interpretation is more consistent with Platos overall thought than the second. Firstly, I examine the cosmic state of the elements, shaped by the Demiurge into regular polyhedra, in comparison with the pre-cosmic chaos, described as a field of heterogeneous, unbalanced forces. Secondly, I define the status of elements in the Timaeus, their role as causes of motion, and the nature of the Receptacle. And finally, I analyze the opinions of ancient commentators on the pre-cosmic chaos, including the presence of primary bodies there and the interpretation of vestiges of the elements. I came to the conclusion, that (1) Cornfords interpretation, which posits only forces and qualities in the pre-cosmic chaos, contradicts Platos fundamental premise that physical movement requires a bodily substrate.; and (2) the description of the pre-cosmic state of the world, which suggests the presence of the elements as disordered and unformed bodies, was widely supported by the views of Platos ancient commentators.
Nadezhda Volkova (Wed,) studied this question.