Apology

Perhaps the most well-known of all the dialogues of the first great Greek philosopher.

Socrates has been accused of corrupting the youth with bad ideas and bad religion. In this dialogue (written by his most famous student, Plato), Socrates defends himself in court.

He argues that his marketplace conversations were intended to illuminate the path of wisdom and living well. He explains why the gods consider him the wisest, and he endeavors to help his countrymen realize they are not living as wisely as they believe.

By living for practical, not moral gain, by not contemplating what is best for the soul, and by seeking only what will prolong their lives, rather than what is just, they failed to live well.

Socrates argues that the gods considered him the wisest because he realized he was not. And that human wisdom is not enough for living well.

A high school student (10th grade +) can read this dialogue in one or two sittings. This dialogue can be read more than once, enjoyably and helpfully.

Socrates was the first great Greek philosopher. He pursued wisdom, endeavored to answer life’s big questions, and showed others how to live wisely. His most famous pupil, Plato, recorded his final hours in dialogues such as Euthyphro, Apology, and Crito.