The trial of Socrates
Summary :
Table of Contents
- Introduction.
- The word apology.
- Harsh accusations and Socrates.
- Socrates' questioning of the politicians, poets and artisans.
- His quest for wisdom.
- The two charges of Meletus.
- Adhering to a higher order of values.
- His divine service as the greatest benefit to befall Athens.
- Socrates' rejection of imprisonment.
- His inability to give up philosophy.
- Socrates as an icon.
- Conclusion.
- References used.
Abstract
The setting of The Apology takes place in Athens, Greece in the year 399 BC. After a 27 year war with Sparta, Athens' democratic government was replaced by an oligarchy. An oligarchy is a form of government in which a small group of tyrannical men rule for selfish gain. It was only two years prior to socrates' trial that Athens' thirty oligarchs were overthrown and killed and democracy re-established. One important factor in setting the stage for socrates' trial was the actions of Alcibiades.
Alcibiades, a former associate of socrates, was implicated in the mutilation of statues of the god Hermes in Athens during intense political upheaval. He was also known to be sympathetic to the Spartan cause. This and other events raised suspicions towards many who were suspected to have been involved in a conspiracy against Athens and her gods. It was apparent that because of socrates' association with Alcibades, his influence was seen as dangerous to the restored democracy and would be better if removed.
Alcibiades, a former associate of socrates, was implicated in the mutilation of statues of the god Hermes in Athens during intense political upheaval. He was also known to be sympathetic to the Spartan cause. This and other events raised suspicions towards many who were suspected to have been involved in a conspiracy against Athens and her gods. It was apparent that because of socrates' association with Alcibades, his influence was seen as dangerous to the restored democracy and would be better if removed.
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