Synopses & Reviews
The trial and death of Socrates (469-399 BCE) have almost as central a place in Western consciousness as the trial and death of Jesus. In four superb dialogues, Plato provides the classic account.
Synopsis
Euthyphro/Apology/Crito/Phaedo
'Nothing can harm a good man either in life or after death'
The trial and condemnation of Socrates on charges of heresy and corrupting young minds is a defining moment in the history of classical Athens. In tracing these events through four dialogues, Plato also developed his own philosophy of a life guided by self-responsibility. Euthyphro finds Socrates outside the court-house, debating the nature of piety, while the Apology is his robust rebuttal of the charges against him. In the Crito, awaiting execution in prison, Socrates counters the arguments of friends urging him to escape. Finally, in the Phaedo, he is shown calmly confident in the face of death.
Translated by HUGH TREDENNICK and HAROLD TARRANT with an Introduction and notes by HAROLD TARRANT
Synopsis
Includes bibliographical references and index.
Synopsis
The trial and death of Socrates (469-399 BCE) have almost as central a place in Western consciousness as the trial and death of Jesus. In four superb dialogues, Plato provides the classic account.
About the Author
Plato (c. 427-347 b.c.) founded the Academy in Athens, the prototype of all Western universities, and wrote more than twenty philosophical dialogues.
Hugh Tredennick was professor of classics at Royal Holloway College and Dean of the Faculty of Arts at London University.
Table of Contents
The Last Days of Socrates Chronology
Preface
General Introduction
Further Reading
A Note on the Texts
EuthyphroHoliness
Socrates in Confrontation
ApologyJustice and Duty (i)
Socrates Speaks at his Trial
CritoJustice and Duty (ii)
Socrates in Prison
PhaedoWisdom and the Soul
Socrates about to Die
Postscript: The Theory of Ideas in the Phaedo
Notes
Index