Plato's Apology
Plato's The Apology is a first-hand account of Socrates' defense in the city of Athens' trial against him. He has been brought forth for charges of atheism (not recognizing the gods of the state), believing in other gods, and finally, corrupting the youth of Athens with his teachings. Athens, at the time, was in the midst of an extremely unstable political state, and Socrates' ideas and teachings were believed to be a threat to its security. Socrates defends himself eloquently and never defies his values, even in the face of the death. His method of defense is extremely brave and unorthodox. There has been much discussion concerning the title of this work. The word "apology" is known today as an admission of error or discourtesy accompanied by an expression of regret, guilt or fault (Merriam-Webster). This definition, however, does not accurately depict Socrates' speech. A perfect example of this modern definition can be found in the speech that President Bill Clinton d!elivered following the admission of his sexual relations with Monica Lewinsky. By analyzing President Clinton's speech, one can easily conclude that the method Socrates uses to defend himself is far from an "apology" by today
He is also clearly deriding the members of the jury whom he believes have committed, and would be persuaded by, such actions. According to Socrates, he is not at fault because it was his duty to God to spread this idea to those who were believed to be knowledgeable. Socrates calls him "highly insolent and uncontrolled" (Plato 26e). Clinton also blatantly seeks pity when he says "Painful though the condemnation of the Congress would be, it would pale in comparison to the consequences of the pain I have caused my family. Another integral part of a modern apology is the expression of regret and guilt. Socrates continues to ridicule the jury by somewhat insulting their power. Clinton looked as if he was going to cry when he delivered his apology, and spoke in a monotone, regretful voice. He insults the severity of their supreme punishment, the death penalty, when he criticizes people that do "amazing things as if they thought it a terrible thing to die, and as if they were to be immortal if yo!u did not execute them" (Plato 35a-b). The entire demeanor of his speech does not conform to that of Clinton's, and for this reason it is evidently not an apology. He also claims that Meletus has "made this deposition out of insolence, violence and youthful zeal," and that he has "given no thought to the subjects about which [he] bring[s] me to trial" (Plato 25c). He continues to convey these scathing !emotions when he says, "What I want the American people to know, what I want the congress to know is that I am profoundly sorry for all I have done wrong in words and deeds. He consistently reiterates these ideas of his superior knowledge throughout the entire speech. Socrates would clearly see President Clinton as not virtuous, for he placed his job ahead of his integrity. Clinton is by no means attempting to justify his actions, but rather reiterates the fact that what he did is blameworthy.
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