Plato’s Presentation of the Speech, Essay Example

The Apology is Plato’s presentation of the speech Socrates gave at his trial. While it should not be taken at face value, as it is presented as a kind of ideal speech, it probably contains much of the actual truth of what was said on that day. Socrates defends himself from general charges against his character and his philosophical inquiry, and from more specific charges that he corrupted the youth and introduced new gods. His chief argument is that he knows nothing, and this has driven his intellectual quest. He also rebuts the allegations of “corrupting” the youth and introducing new gods, particularly because he is also accused of atheism.

The text is organized into three parts. In the first part, Socrates gives his defense: he explains who he really is and what he really does. He has been driven by the realization he knows nothing, and by the thinking that he could disprove the oracle’s claim that he was the wisest of men. He goes on to rebut the more specific charges against him. In the second part, Socrates has been found guilty; he is supposed to propose a penalty for himself, but instead he proposes he should be rewarded for his service to Athens. He is sentenced to death. Finally, in part three, Socrates addresses those who condemned him to death. He shows great courage and resolve, drawing attention to his own refusal to engage in emotional arguments. He also encourages his supporters, and states that death must be a blessing: either he will cease to be, or he will meet great people in the afterlife.

The style of writing definitely helps with the point, because it is accessible and easy to understand. In essence, it expresses keen insights and some rather complex ideas in a way that is not hard to comprehend. The introduction drew me in, because Socrates addresses the Athenians and speaks of his accusers. This instantly sets up the conflict: this man has been accused of something. He goes on to talk about falsehoods, and the intrigue grows. The conclusion was a bit long, to my eye, but overall I thought it showed Socrates’ strength of character and fortitude.