Socrates was a Greek philosopher known as the Father of Western Philosophy. His teachings are primarily known through the works of his two students Plato and Xenophon.

What is Socrates best known for?

Socrates is best known for his depiction in Plato's Apology (defense) as the ideal philosopher willing to die for his convictions.

What were the legal charges brought against Socrates?

Socrates was charged with impiety - denying the existence of the gods of Athens and introducing new deities - and with corrupting the youth.

Why did Socrates choose to die when he could have escaped?

Socrates chose to accept the death sentence imposed by the Athenians because, if he escaped, his teachings would have been rendered meaningless.

Socrates

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Definition

Socrates of Athens (l. c. 470/469-399 BCE) is among the most famous figures in world history for his contributions to the development of ancient Greek philosophy which provided the foundation for all of Western Philosophy. He is, in fact, known as the "Father of Western Philosophy" for this reason.

More about: Socrates

Timeline

c. 469 BCE - 399 BCE
Life of Socrates.
c. 424 BCE - 423 BCE
Plato is born at Athens, Greece.
407 BCE
Plato meets Socrates, abandons aspiration to be playwright.
c. 403 BCE - 401 BCE
Xenophon is a disciple of Socrates.
399 BCE
The Athenian demos pass the death sentence on Socrates.
399 BCE
Trial and death of the philosopher Socrates, who taught in the court of the Agora.
398 BCE
Plato flees to Megara with other followers of Socrates.