Socrates - The Life and The Trial

A Warm Welcome,

This blog explores the life of Socrates and his emphasis on rational thinking. Although our professor assigned it as a Sunday reading activity, I would have written this blog regardless, due to my deep admiration for Socrates' philosophy and his clever use of wit to challenge complex ideas. So, without further ado, let's delve into the life and mind of Socrates.

Socrates was born around 470 BCE in Athens, Greece, and he died in 399 BCE in the same city. He was a famous Greek philosopher who had a massive impact on Classical antiquity and Western philosophy.

In his hometown of Athens, Socrates was a well-known and controversial figure. He was so well-known that comic playwrights often made fun of him in their plays. The best example of this is "The Clouds" by Aristophanes, which came out in 423 BCE. Even though Socrates didn't write anything himself, his conversations and ideas were captured by his followers, especially Plato and Xenophon. They described him as incredibly wise, honest, self-controlled, and a master at arguing.

Socrates' life had an even greater impact because of how it ended. When he was 70, he was put on trial for impiety and sentenced to death by poisoning, likely with hemlock, by a jury of his fellow Athenians. Plato's "Apology of Socrates" claims to be the speech Socrates gave in his defense during the trial. This powerful speech, which promotes the idea of living an examined life and criticizes Athenian democracy, has become a key text in Western thought and culture.

Interesting Facts About Socrates:

1. Barefoot Wanderer: Socrates was well-known for walking barefoot throughout Athens, regardless of the weather or terrain, which often amused and puzzled those around him.

2. Unique Appearance: With his disheveled hair, stout figure, and perpetually thoughtful expression, Socrates was easily recognizable and stood out in any crowd.

3. Teaching with Humor: When asked why he didn’t teach practical skills like household management, Socrates humorously replied that he didn’t want his students to become clever thieves.

4. Handling Xanthippe: Socrates remained unfazed by his wife Xanthippe’s notorious temper, once remarking that if someone could handle her, they could handle anyone.

5. Occasional Merrymaking: Despite his usual seriousness, Socrates sometimes enjoyed wine at social gatherings and was even seen dancing happily after a few glasses.