"The time of Socrates' life coincides with the most characteristic and timeless period of what has since been called classical Athens and classical Greek civilization. It is the most glorious period of Athenian history, the years that made the city of Athena Pallas famous throughout the world. The age of Socrates is virtually identical to that which began after the Persian Wars and ended with the end of the Peloponnesian War and the turbulent period that followed, of which Socrates himself was the chief victim."
Socrates' Trial and the Golden Age of Athens digs into a scholarly exploration of the enigmatic philosopher's life amidst the tumultuous tapestry of ancient Athens in a period of unparalleled intellectual and artistic accomplishments. This meticulously researched work delves into the iconic trial reverberating throughout the centuries and illuminates the broader historical context. From the intricate web of Athenian democracy's politics and strategic maneuvers to the intellectual debates and artistic creativity that shaped the era, this book unveils the intellectual ferment and political intricacies of a society on the cusp of transformation. Immerse in the world of Socrates, Athens' golden age, and the riveting interplay of ideas, power, and statecraft.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Political and social climate
Pericles and the "Golden Age" of Athens
The Council of Five Hundred
The Eliaea
Citizens, residents and slaves
2. Cultural climate and achievements
The Theatre
The Acropolis and the Parthenon
Poetry and painting
Sophists and the Evolution of Philosophical and Scientific Thought in Classical Athens
Philosophers Before Socrates
3. The protagonists of the trial
The Accusers of Socrates
Aristophanes and the "Clouds"
4. General facts about the life and philosophy of Socrates
Socrates in prison: the Platonic dialogue "Crito"
Socrates in the face of death: The Platonic dialogue "Phaedo"
5. The trial
The accusation of impiety and the introduction of "new demons"
Procedural elements of the trial of Socrates
The Platonic and other "Apologies of Socrates"
Socrates' prologue to the court, as presented by Plato
Socrates' eulogy and last words
6. The aftermath of Socrates' trial
The echo in ancient Athens itself
The key contribution of the Romans and the views of modern thinkers
Quotes from contemporary writers on Socrates
7. Bibliography
8. Appendice: The strategic choices of the Athenians from the Persian Wars to Alexander the Great (479-336 BCE)
Democratic maritime imperialism and the aristocrats
9. Index of names
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