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Apology. Erik Rankin – POL 161 Fall 07. Apology. Discussion of the word “apology” (apologia) as used in ancient Greece Socrates has 3 charges made against him, what are those 3 charges? This is the easiest of all Plato’s writings to follow due to its plain conversational manner
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Apology Erik Rankin – POL 161 Fall 07
Apology • Discussion of the word “apology” (apologia) as used in ancient Greece • Socrates has 3 charges made against him, what are those 3 charges? • This is the easiest of all Plato’s writings to follow due to its plain conversational manner • What is his experience with the court of law? • How old is Socrates at this point?
Apology • Socrates says that his accusers remain anonymous to him but he outlines their charges nonetheless • He does not believe in the gods (he only supposedly teaches the physical nature of life as compared to the metaphysical) • He teaches how to make the lesser argument overcome the more powerful one • Socrates would like to cross examine his accusers, who he does not know • He does make assumptions about one, who is that person?
Apology • 1st Defense “inquires into things below the earth and sky” • He says that he has no knowledge of doing this • Refers to Aristophanes play (The Clouds) which shows him as a rambling bumpkin talking about divinity • He knows nothing of these matters and does not pretend to • Distances himself from the Sophists • Who are the Sophists? • Does Socrates like them?
Apology • Where does Socrates say that he received is inquisitive nature? • What does Socrates say he knows? • What is his supposed duty? • This duty earns him love from one group and hatred amongst others, who? • Who is responsible for his trial then? • Socrates moves to his interrogation of Meletus • Who is Meletus?
Apology • Only example of elenchus in the Apology • What does elenchus mean? • Does Socrates seem to want truth from Meletus? • What is his real aim? • Meletus says that Socrates does not believe in any gods at all, how does Socrates refute this? • Was Meletus correct in his accusation?
Apology • Socrates makes an argument about putting an innocent man to death- he contends that it is far worse than dying oneself, why? • Who is really in danger then? • What does Socrates think he does for Athens? • The gadfly passage • The jury then goes into deliberation, what is their overall decision?
Apology • What does Socrates suggest for his penalty? • He is given a choice of prison or exile and he chooses to pay a fine (smart ass, huh?) • The jury rejects and sentences him to death • Does Socrates fear death? • Why or Why not? • How will he be put to death? • His warning to the jurymen