Question

Plato's apology

1. Give an analysis

2. The anaylsis has to be thorough and supported with textual evidence

3. Given as an arguement

Answer 1

• It is important to understand two things about the Apology. First, it is Plato’s dramatic, eyewitness account of the apology of his friend and teacher. Second, this apology is not an expression of regret for an error but a defense of Socrates’ conduct and whole way of life.
• The Apology is in one sense a historical account of Socrates' defense of himself at the time of his trial. It is generally believed to be the most reliable record of the event that has been preserved.
• Plato's conception of Socrates may be idealized to some extent, and it is quite possible that in some cases he may have reported what he thinks ought to have been said rather than what Socrates did say.
• Plato's understanding of Socrates and the manner of his defense is probably as close to the actual facts as it is humanly possible for one to attain. This is indicated by a number of different facts. In the first place, the Apology is the one dialog in which Plato is referred to as one who was present at the trial.
• This makes his writing the testimony of an eyewitness. Again, the account appears to have been written shortly after the trial, in which case any in-accuracies or falsifications would have been detected by others who were familiar with the circumstances.
• Socrates wants to make it clear that he does not employ speech for the purpose of swaying the feelings of his audience. The only kind of rhetoric for which he has any use is that of making a presentation of facts in language so clear that all can understand.
• Plato's purpose in writing this dialogue included something more than a historical interest. He wanted to present Socrates in the role of a martyr, using that term in the very best sense of the word. It was the character of the man as seen from within that was especially noteworthy.
• The Apology ends with the speech in which Socrates utters a prophetic warning to his judges concerning the verdict that history will pronounce upon them for the actions they have taken in condemning him to death.
• It is a remarkable speech and one that illustrates Socrates' deep conviction that it is far better to suffer injustice than it is to practice injustice. What one needs to fear most of all is not what happens to one's body but what happens to one's soul. Injustice may appear to be triumphant at the time, but eventually evildoers will be given a just recompense.
• Whether this speech was actually given by Socrates at the time of his trial or is merely one that Plato believed would have been appropriate for him to give at that time is a question that cannot be answered with certainty.