εἰ ἄρα τις: the case which Socrates here assumes in illustration serves not only to enliven the discourse, but also to show (as opposed to the objections of ch. XL.) how unworthy and debased an object would have to be set before educators if the possession of power in the state is to be the leading aim of mankind.— Noteworthy is the use of the direct question after the introductory protasis, and furthermore the omission of some apodosis corresponding to the protasis, like γνοίη ἂν ὅτι, in place of which we find ὡς ἔοικεν. Kr. gives other similar examples in 65, 5, 14. Similar cases occur in Latin.
ἐν ταύτῃ τῇ πόλει: see on 468 e. The position is noteworthy.
μηδείς με ἀδικοίη : μή was the negative of the wish, underlying the question, and is thus retained. It is therefore not necessary, with GMT. 292, 2, to suppose an idea of prevention to be involved. How could I obtain great power and no one do (prevent any one from doing, GMT.) me wrong?
