Last Days of Socrates

A new translation of Plato's four-part dialogue that eulogizes the genius of his mentor Socrates.

Plato's account of Socrates' trial and death in 399 BC represents a significant moment in Western literature as well as a watershed in the life of ancient Athens. In these four dialogues, Plato develops the Socratic belief in responsibility for one's self and shows Socrates- condemned to suicide by his fellow Athenians-living and dying under his own philosophy. In Euthyphro, Socrates debates goodness outside the courthouse; Apology sees him in court, rebutting all charges of impiety; in Crito, he refuses an entreaty to escape from prison; and in Phaedo, Socrates faces his impending death with calmness and a skillful discussion of immortality.

A new translation of Plato's four-part dialogue that eulogizes the genius of his mentor Socrates.

Plato's account of Socrates' trial and death in 399 BC represents a significant moment in Western literature as well as a watershed in the life of ancient Athens. In these four dialogues, Plato develops the Socratic belief in responsibility for one's self and shows Socrates- condemned to suicide by his fellow Athenians-living and dying under his own philosophy. In Euthyphro, Socrates debates goodness outside the courthouse; Apology sees him in court, rebutting all charges of impiety; in Crito, he refuses an entreaty to escape from prison; and in Phaedo, Socrates faces his impending death with calmness and a skillful discussion of immortality.

Plato (c. 427-347 BC) founded the Academy in Athens, the prototype of all Western universities, and wrote more than twenty philosophical dialogues.

Christopher Rowe is a professor of Greek at the University of Durham.