ENGL 298 B: Intermediate Writing Social Sciences   Autumn 2011, University of Washington

1. The word in the “Apology” that was interesting to me was “slander”. This word not only caught my eye because Socrates used it so much but because it is important in the defense of Socrates himself. Slander according Socrates is false accusations and statements that have obviously brought him to court. The slanderous statements that are made cheat Socrates and unjustly bring him into a situation where he is unfairly judged. Socrates states, “I must surely defend myself and attempt to uproot from your minds in so short a time the slander that has resided there so long” (Apology, 19 a). Slander is important here because it is the only thing that the court has to accuse Socrates. There is no true evidence or correct statements or accusations that can actually convict Socrates. Socrates is only in a battle with the slanderous things that have been said about him. What Socrates believes in and supports is completely turned around by citizens of Athens because what he preaches upsets the people.

2. In the “Crito” the word that stood out to me was “Peacefully”. Peace to Socrates means being content with oneself, having no fear, and believing in everything you know. Even though Socrates knows he will soon be executed, Crito sees him in is jail cell as “peacefully asleep” (Crito 43, b). Socrates is calm and at seemingly unafraid despite knowing his fate.  In the society of Athens, death is viewed as an evil and is unknown. Socrates acknowledges that he does not know the unknown. Death is unknown which means so there is no reason to be afraid. Even until his death, Socrates keeps his beliefs in mind and does not change the way he thinks. This fact shows the true philosopher that
Socrates was, having no fear and keeping his beliefs even in a time of crisis.