A succinct and concentrated analysis of key themes in Plotinus' psychology and ethics. It focuses on the soul-body relation, discussing various Platonic, Aristotelian, and Stoic views before arguing that there is only a soul-trace in the body (forming with the body a "compound"), while the reasoning soul itself is impassive and flawless.

"In Ennead I.1 Plotinus addresses the question of our own identity: what are we, and what is it that asks? O'Daly's new translation and his characteristically detailed and scholarly analysis will be an essential resource for anyone wishing to understand Plotinus' conception of ourselves as undying intelligences yoked, in this life, to the living thing which is our ordinary self. A notable edition to a valuable series."
--Stephen R. L. Clark, Emeritus Professor of Philosophy, University of Liverpool

"This is one of Plotinus' latest treatises, in which the author offers a concise but systematic overview of his views on the human soul, its cognitive and emotional dynamics, and its relation to the other levels of reality. In O'Daly's carefully wrought translation and commentary the reader finds a useful guide to help unravel Plotinus' occasionally cryptic line of argumentation and to penetrate into some of the most fascinating aspects of his philosophizing."
--Paul Kalligas, Professor of Ancient Philosophy, Director of the European Cultural Centre of Delphi

"O'Daly's commentary guides us through Plotinus' dense argumentation with admirable precision and clarity--it is especially noteworthy for its recognition of the great extent to which Plotinus is indebted to and in conversation with Aristotle, while differing from him at key points."
--Eric Perl, Professor and Chair, Department of Philosophy
Loyola Marymount University

"This is a splendid work of scholarship, written by one of the great authorities on this domain."
--Riccardo Chiaradonna, Professor of Ancient Philosophy, Roma Tre University

"With an admirable introduction that places Ennead I.1 within the chronological and philosophical context of Plotinus' writings as a whole, a lucid and engaging translation, and extensive, helpful critical notes, O'Daly has done a valuable service to students of Plotinus and ancient philosophy in general--highly recommended."
--Gary Gabor, Assistant Professor of Philosophy, Hamline University