The Apology & Euthphro essays

The Apology & Euthphro essays The Apology is a description of the speech given by Socrates at his trial. He was put on trial for not recognizing the gods, inventing new gods, and corrupting the people of Athens. Although the title of this work is The Apology, it doesnt seem to me like hes really apologizing. Hes simply explaining himself. The account that Socrates gives to the court is that his behavior comes from a prophecy given to him by the Oracle at Apollo, whom said he was the wisest of all men. He then interpreted that hes only wiser then other wise men because he knows that he knows nothing. He questioned other wise men in Athens, exposing their false wisdom, and embarrassing them greatly. Socrates sticks by his beliefs, and defends the way he has chosen to live. He acknowledges his own ignorance, and therefore cannot take himself too seriously. This comes off as a serious insult to the court, since none of them consider themselves ignorant, and Socrates believes ignorance is a type of wisdom. When Socrates gets the chance to cross examine Meletus, he embarrasses him over and over again. He intentionally asks questions which cause Meletus to contradict himself. Even though Socrates proves his point during the trial, he is still sentenced to death. This piece is an encounter Socrates has with Euthyphro outside the court in Athens. Euthyphro is there to prosecute his father for unintentionally killing an insane farm hand. Socrates then commends, saying that Euthyphro must be very knowledgeable in matters concerning religious if hes so willing to prosecute his own father on such a questionable charge. Euthyphro agrees that he knows all that is to be known about what is holy. The obviously sparks the interest of Scorates, and he asks to be taught. As the lesson goes on, Socrates manages to pick apart each definition Euthyphro provides. This frustrates Euthyphr ...