Apology of Socrates | Plato's Dialogues summarized |

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Transcript:
Socrates was an ancient Greek philosopher who lived in Athens in the 5th century BCE. He is known for his method of questioning, which is called the Socratic method. Socrates did not write any books, and most of what we know about him comes from the writings of his pupils and followers, especially Plato.

The "Apology" is a Platonic dialogue that describes Socrates' defense at his trial. Socrates was charged with impiety and corrupting the youth of Athens, and he was brought to trial in 399 BCE. The "Apology" is not an apology in the modern sense of the word; rather, it is a defense or a justification of Socrates' way of life before the jury of Athens.

In the dialogue, Socrates speaks to the jury and defends himself against the charges that have been brought by the prossecutor, Meletus. He argues that he has not corrupted the youth of Athens, but rather has tried to improve them by teaching them to think for themselves. He also argues that he has not committed impiety, but rather has been trying to understand the nature of the gods and the universe. The jury ultimately finds Socrates guilty, and he is sentenced to death by drinking hemlock.

The apology highlights the importance of questioning authority and the need to live a life of virtue and integrity, even in the face of opposition and persecution. Finally, the "Apology" is a powerful critique of Athenian democracy, which, Socrates argues, is capable of doing great harm to individuals who do not conform to the majority's values and beliefs. This will be later known as the tyranny of the majority.

There are other Platonic dialogues that concern Socrates' death.

"Phaedo" recounts the last hours of Socrates' life and concerns the immortality of the soul.

"Euthyphro" – in which Socrates meets Euthyphro on his way to court and discusses with him the nature of piety and justice.

And "Crito" - the dialogue takes place after Socrates' conviction and focuses on his decision not to escape from prison.

All four of these dialogues provide insights into Socrates' thoughts and beliefs about his impending death, as well as the philosophical and ethical ideas he pursued throughout his life.