Crito by Plato

Summary

In this dialogue from Plato's *Crito*, Socrates calmly discusses his impending execution with his friend Crito, who urges him to escape. Socrates, however, remains firm in his belief that one must live a just life, even in the face of death. He argues that breaking the law, even to save himself, would be unjust and undermine the very principles he has lived by. Socrates rejects the idea of fleeing, asserting that doing wrong, even in retaliation, is never just. His unwavering commitment to virtue and justice leads him to accept his fate rather than betray his moral beliefs.

Takeaways

• 😀 Socrates reflects on his calmness in facing his impending death and the role of age in shaping one's approach to death.
• 😀 Crito brings news of the impending arrival of the ship from Delos, signaling Socrates' execution will soon take place.
• 😀 Socrates has a dream of a fair woman advising him to escape, which Crito interprets as a sign that Socrates should flee.
• 😀 Crito expresses concern for Socrates' fate, believing that saving him would prevent others from thinking he values money more than friendship.
• 😀 Socrates argues that only the opinions of wise people should matter, not those of the many, as they are often based on chance rather than reason.
• 😀 Socrates dismisses the idea of escaping because it would betray his principles and is a matter of rational duty, not emotion.
• 😀 Socrates emphasizes that one's life should be guided by reason and justice, not by the opinions of the majority or personal interests.
• 😀 The conversation touches on the idea that one should never respond to injustice with injustice, reinforcing Socrates' commitment to moral integrity.
• 😀 Socrates believes that escaping would harm the laws and the state, which he has long agreed to follow, even if he disagrees with the specific outcome of his trial.
• 😀 Crito is persuaded that Socrates must follow his principles and accept the consequences of his actions, regardless of the external pressure or personal loss.
• 😀 The final resolution is that Socrates chooses to remain true to his principles and let fate unfold as it will, even if it means his death.

Q & A

What is Socrates' primary concern regarding the escape plan suggested by Crito?

Socrates' primary concern is that escaping would go against his lifelong principles, especially the commitment to follow the laws of Athens. He believes that it would be unjust to break the law, even if it would save his life.

Why does Crito want Socrates to escape?

Crito wants Socrates to escape because he values their friendship and is upset about losing him. He also feels responsible for not attempting to save Socrates earlier and fears that people will think he values money more than friendship.

How does Socrates view the opinions of the majority, according to the script?

Socrates believes that the opinions of the majority are not valuable when it comes to matters of justice. He argues that only the opinions of wise, virtuous individuals should be regarded, as they have the understanding necessary to make judgments on what is right.

What does Socrates argue about doing wrong in return for an injustice?

Socrates argues that it is never right to respond to an injustice with another injustice. He believes that doing wrong intentionally, even in response to evil, is always evil.

What are the laws of Athens portrayed as in the dialogue?

The laws of Athens are portrayed as the foundation of justice and society. Socrates personifies the laws, suggesting that they have given him life, education, and protection. He believes that breaking them would harm the city, which has nurtured him.

How does Socrates respond to the idea of escaping to another place like Thessaly?

Socrates rejects the idea of escaping to another place. He insists that escaping would be unjust and would violate his agreement to live according to the laws of Athens. He believes that it would be wrong to harm the laws that gave him life and opportunity.

Why does Socrates argue that escaping would be harmful to his reputation?

Socrates believes that if he escapes, he would contradict his previous teachings on virtue and justice. It would also make his friends look like they acted unjustly in aiding his escape, which would damage his integrity and the respect others have for him.

What is Socrates' view on the duty of parents and the role of the state in raising children?

Socrates believes that the state plays a crucial role in shaping individuals and that, by staying in Athens, he has implicitly accepted the state's laws and responsibilities. He argues that running away would be like abandoning his children, and it would be a betrayal of his duty as a parent and citizen.

How does Crito feel about the risk of helping Socrates escape?

Crito expresses that he is willing to risk his own safety and wealth to help Socrates escape. He believes that it is his duty as a friend to save Socrates, even if it comes with personal risk, and he fears the consequences of not acting.

What lesson does Socrates impart about the relationship between individuals and the laws?

Socrates teaches that individuals have a responsibility to obey the laws of the state, as the state provides the structure for their lives. By choosing to live in Athens, Socrates implicitly agreed to follow the laws. Escaping would be a violation of this agreement and a harm to the social contract.