Not sure “intended interpretation” can be used to describe anything in the Republic.
The Republic is written to guide human souls out of the cave. Can the curious readers find the truth themselves in the story of Er upon careful examination? Is Er a philosopher? Does a philosopher need rewards described by Er? Can a philosopher choose an inconspicuous life (especally after the disussion of the philosopher’s life earlier in the book)? Can you take a story given in a book as the truth without examination after prose was denied place in the Republic?
The Republic is written to guide human souls out of the cave. Can the curious readers find the truth themselves in the story of Er upon careful examination? Is Er a philosopher? Does a philosopher need rewards described by Er? Can a philosopher choose an inconspicuous life (especally after the disussion of the philosopher’s life earlier in the book)? Can you take a story given in a book as the truth without examination after prose was denied place in the Republic?
All is up to the reader.