Proclus (February 8, 412 – April 17, 485) was a prominent late ancient Greek Neoplatonist philosopher, who served as the head of the Platonic Academy in Athens. He systematized and expanded the teachings of Plotinus and Iamblichus, earning the title 'the culmination of Neoplatonism.' His works cover metaphysics, cosmology, theology, mathematics, and literary criticism. His major writings, including 'Elements of Theology' and 'Platonic Theology,' profoundly influenced medieval Christian, Islamic, and Renaissance thought. Proclus emphasized the 'One' as the ultimate principle, from which all reality emanates through a hierarchy of intellect, soul, and matter. He advocated for a return to the divine through philosophy and mystical rites. His ideas resonated in the works of Pseudo-Dionysius, Thomas Aquinas, and Islamic philosophers, making him a key bridge between ancient and medieval philosophy.
