In tracing these events through four dialogues, Plato also developed his own philosophy, based on Socrates' manifesto for a life guided by self-responsibility. Euthyphro finds Socrates outside the court-house, debating the nature of piety, while the Apologyis his robust rebuttal of the charges of impiety and a defence of the philosopher's life.

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, based on Socrates' manifesto for a life guided by self-responsibility. Euthyphro finds Socrates outside the court-house, debating the nature of piety, while the Apologyis his robust rebuttal of the charges of impiety and a defence of the philosopher's life. In the Crito, while awaiting executionoin 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, skilfully arguing the case for the immortality of the soul.

Chronology

Preface

General Introduction

Further Reading

A Note on the Texts

Euthyphro - Holiness

 Socrates in Confrontation

Apology -Justice and Duty (i)

 Socrates Speaks at his Trial

Crito -Justice and Duty (ii)

 Socrates in Prison

Phaedo - Wisdom and the Soul

 Socrates about to Die

Postscript: The Theory of Ideas

 in the Phaedo

Notes

Index