Plato's Apology

A detailed Summary of Plato's Apology

Plato's The Apology is a first-hand account of Socrates' defense in the city of Athens' trial against him. He has been brought forth for charges of atheism (not recognizing the gods of the state), believing in other gods, and finally, corrupting the youth of Athens with his teachings. Athens, at the time, was in the midst of an extremely unstable political state, and Socrates' ideas and teachings were believed to be a threat to its security. Socrates defends himself eloquently and never defies his values, even in the face of the death. His method of defense is extremely brave and unorthodox. There has been much discussion concerning the title of this work. The word "apology" is known today as an admission of error or discourtesy accompanied by an expression of regret, guilt or fault (Merriam-Webster). This definition, however, does not accurately depict Socrates' speech. A perfect example of this modern definition can be found in the speech that President Bill Clinton d!

elivered following the admission of his sexual relations with Monica Lewinsky. By analyzing President Clinton's speech, one can easily conclude that the method Socrates uses to defend himself is far from an "apology" by today

followed the kind of occupation that has led to your being

On the other hand, President Clinton does exactly what Socrates refuses to do, for his speech concerning the Monica Lewinsky affair is an archetype apology by today's definition. As was stated before, a modern apology is known as an admission of wrongdoing accompanied by an expression of regret or guilt (Merriam-Webster). Clinton clearly admits his wrongdoing when he says, "while it's hard to hear yourself called deceitful and manipulative, I remember Ben Franklin's admonition that our critics are our friends, for they do show us our faults" (Time 1). Clinton is by no means attempting to justify his actions, but rather reiterates the fact that what he did is blameworthy. Another integral part of a modern apology is the expression of regret and guilt. Clinton clearly expresses these very emotions when he says, "Like anyone who honestly faces the shame of wrongful conduct, I would give anything to go back and undo what I did" (Time 1). He continues to convey these scathing !

now in danger of death?' However, I should be right to reply

s. Socrates even mocks the jury and, in turn, Clinton, for their common, second-grade principles when he says "when he himself [someone in the jury] stood trial on a less dangerous charge, he begged and implored the jury with many tears... he brought his children and many of his friends and family into court to arouse as much pity as he could, but... I do none of these things, even though I may be running the ultimate risk" (Plato 34b-c). He resents Clinton's method of seeking mercy through such childish means, even though it could, and likely does, cost Socrates his life. He is also clearly deriding the members of the jury whom he believes have committed, and would be persuaded by, such actions. Socrates continues to ridicule the jury by somewhat insulting their power. He insults the severity of their supreme punishment, the death penalty, when he criticizes people that do "amazing things as if they thought it a terrible thing to die, and as if they were to be immortal if yo!

"Someone might say: 'Are you not ashamed, Socrates, to have

u did not execute them" (Plato 35a-b). By saying this Socrates is almost tempting them to sentence him death, because he more or less does not care because he is destined to die

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Approximate Word count = 1575
Approximate Pages = 6 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: Miscellaneous