The Apology had it's moments where I really just wanted to throw my computer because it had a lot of information that you had to have an understanding of before reading it. I've never had to learn anything about Greek Mythology so there were some parts where I would get really lost. All the different gods' names being said and the characteristics made it a little difficult to get through. Once I was able to look past all of the confusion with the gods, I really did enjoy it.
Socrates stood up for what he believed in and wasn't going to let anyone get the better of him. While on trial, he never disrespected anyone but at the same time he made everyone sound like fools. He had a way with his words that were very persuasive. Unfortunately, not persuasive enough to save his life. Even on death row he knew what he did during his life was right. He wasn't going to let anyone tell him otherwise.
If i was one of the jurors that sentenced him to his death, I would have been fearful for my life. Socrates had people that would want to justify his life and show that there were people that WANTED to listen to him.
Even having read it before, I was a little confused, so no worries. I highly recommend reading the book Sophie's World. It explains all of the philosophers and their societies, but in a really interesting way, and its a ficticious story so it will hold your attention.
ReplyDeleteI adore Sophie's World. An excellent recommendation!
DeleteI definitely understand your frustration with the story. There were many times I was scratching my head wondering what he was talking about and how he got talking about it. I was surprised that he was sentenced to death and not something less severe. He defended himself with excellent examples that convinced me very quickly of his innocence.
ReplyDeleteI printed mine off and read it the times where you probably wanted to throw your computer were the times i wanted to shred my paper. Socrates way with words was intimidating but yet inviting how he know so much but yet never belittled people byhis knowledge. which i thought was awesome.
ReplyDeleteNo doubt this can be easily confused. I agree in that Socratess defenately stands up for what he believes in. I did find it interesting how nice and respectful he was throuhout the story, even if he was not returned the same respect.
ReplyDeleteI felt that exact same way, but eventually, after rereading it, I figured out what points Socrates was making. It was definitely not an easy read, but it was still worthwhile.
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree with you on the difficulty of some of the reading. Keeping up with the characters and multiple metaphors was a plain headache. But the morals behind the story were pretty intriguing in my opinion, especially the change of beliefs that Socrates felt needed to happen.
ReplyDeleteI know there was a lot of "assumed knowledge" in this passage, but I'm so glad you made it through.
ReplyDelete"While on trial, he never disrespected anyone but at the same time he made everyone sound like fools." - I particularly liked this line. Great insights!