Story Summary
Explore the trial of the century in Socrates' Defense, where the philosopher chooses truth over life, challenging Athens and defining Western philosophy.
In 399 BC, the philosopher Socrates stood before an Athenian jury of 501 citizens, facing charges of impiety and corrupting the youth. Rather than begging for mercy, Socrates delivered a masterful defense of his life's work. He recounted how the Oracle at Delphi had declared him the wisest of men, a claim he initially doubted. To test this, he questioned those considered wise—politicians, poets, and craftsmen—only to find they knew nothing of true virtue but believed they did. Socrates concluded he was wiser only because he recognized his own ignorance. He described himself as a 'gadfly' sent by the gods to sting the lazy city into self-reflection. When found guilty by a narrow margin, he refused to propose a lighter sentence than death, arguing that he deserved a reward for his service. He chose to drink the poisonous hemlock, maintaining that a man of integrity should never fear death, but only injustice.
The Moral
Living with integrity and seeking the truth is more important than preserving one's life. The pursuit of wisdom begins with admitting one's own ignorance.
“The unexamined life is not worth living.”
Fun Fact
The word 'Apology' comes from the Greek 'apologia,' which means a formal defense of one's beliefs or actions, not an admission of guilt or regret.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Socrates' Defense?
The moral is that personal integrity and the pursuit of truth are more valuable than life itself. It teaches that one should never compromise their principles even under the threat of death.
Why was Socrates put on trial?
He was officially charged with impiety against the gods of Athens and corrupting the minds of the youth. These charges were largely a response to his constant questioning of established social and political norms.
What does the word 'Apology' mean in this story?
In ancient Greek, 'apologia' does not mean an excuse or regret. It refers to a formal legal defense or a speech made in justification of one's actions.
How did Socrates die after the trial?
After being sentenced to death, Socrates was required to drink a cup of hemlock, a poisonous plant. He died surrounded by his friends, discussing philosophy until his final moments.
Who recorded the speech of Socrates?
The most famous version of the defense was written by Plato, his most dedicated student. While other versions exist, Plato's 'Apology' is considered the definitive literary account.
What was the Oracle of Delphi's role in the story?
The Oracle declared that 'no man is wiser than Socrates.' This prophecy led Socrates to begin his mission of questioning others to see if he could find anyone wiser than himself.
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