Socratic Writings

Socratic Writings Synopsis

Collected together here are a collection of works revealing the philosophy of Socrates from his friend and contemporary Xenophon. In "e;The Memorabilia"e; Xenophon directly defends the charges against Socrates, which were largely religious, but also political, in nature. Subsequently a series of episodes in which Socrates converses is related revealing a remarkable glimpse into everyday Athenian life and the wisdom of Socrates' teachings. In "e;The Economist"e;, Xenophon speaks of household organization and administration, again allowing readers to see Socrates' political philosophy and ancient Greek life from the author's perspective. "e;The Symposium"e; vibrantly relates a witty dinner party in which Socrates and the author were both in attendance, and where each person present defined their idea of virtue and pride. In "e;The Apology"e;, the state of mind and defense of Socrates is related in detail at his trial and execution. Finally, in "e;Hiero,"e; an extended dialogue between the absolute dictator of Syracuse and the poet Simonides is presented, in which they discuss how the private man has easier access to happiness than a tyrant. While many readers may be more familiar with Plato's writings on Socrates, this collection gives added insight into of ancient Greece's most important philosophers. This edition includes a biographical afterword and follows the translations of H. G. Dakyns.

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