Socrates, Man of Many Colors - 1125 Words

â€Å"Socrates, the Man of Many Colors† The Last Days of Socrates contains a series of dialogues with Socrates in the run- up to his trial, where he is sentenced to death. Plato, the author, was inspired by Socrates. Plato was a student of his and went on to teach many famous people such as Aristotle, who wrote treatises on everything from poetry to biology, and even Alexander the Great. Plato was born into a wealthy family around the last days of the Athenian Empire (427-347 B.C.). Plato was also an advisor to the king of Syracuse. Plato had great influence throughout the history of philosophy, often being called the father of Western philosophy. He wrote over twenty philosophical dialogues and thirteen letters (†¦show more content†¦He believes he would be going against his beliefs and character if he chose to escape. The last dialogue is Phaedo, a beloved disciple of the great teacher. Socrates shows his belief of the immortality of the soul. This dialogue was the fourth and last detailing the final days of Socrates. Socrates presents four arguments for the immortality of the soul. First, there is the claim that the soul is made up of basic forms. Second, the fact that we are born with certain innate knowledge proves that the knowledge is eternal. Third, people generally agree the soul is different from the body. Fourth, the soul is by definition living and thus can’t die in any meaningful way. At the end of the dialogue, Socrates is executed by poison hemlock. Phaedo was right by his side until his death. Phaedo said that ,† although I was witnessing the death of someone who was my friend, I had no feeling of pity, for the man appeared happy both in manner and words, as he died nobly and without fear † (p. 212). I was personally intrigued by the entire book. While the read was somewhat difficult to follow, I knew that it being such a true story and a part of so much of our history, I couldn’t put it down. I gained such an overwhelming sense of understanding for Socrates after reading The Last Days of Socrates. I believe if I had to recommend a starter book for Ancient Philosophy I would definitely recommendShow MoreRelatedEssay The Death of Socrates1232 Words   |  5 PagesThe Death of Socrates Viewing the painting â€Å"The Death of Socrates† by Jacques-Louis David, one can perceive many different subject matters, both literally and metaphorically. The obvious is seen within the setting of the painting. The clear illustration of where the event is happening provides the onlooker with a glimpse into a different time and era. Conversely, the artist has taken the liberty to hide deep meaning inside the work of art through less apparent means. Symbolism through art workRead MorePlato s Meno And Nietzsche On Truth And Lie1720 Words   |  7 Pagesthe theme of â€Å"truth† and â€Å"knowledge†. In Meno, Plato writes of a dialogue between his late mentor, Socrates and politician Meno. 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