Plato is one of the most remarkable writers and philosophers who ever lived. The reason that his writings have lived on for so many years is that they debate fundamental themes of human existence that transpire over the ages. An example of this can be seen in the Trial of Socrates in Plato’s Apology. One of the principle themes that is debated in Plato’s Apology is the notion of death as a deterrent, (“Apology: Theme Analysis,” 2016). Socrates, in his monologue, debates whether he should escape his execution for merely fearing death and abandon his principles and loyalty to the city of Athens, (“Apology: Theme Analysis,” 2016).
Socrates through his own internal deductive reasoning and debate with Crito decides that he should not allow death to persuade him to escape prison, (“Apology: Theme Analysis,” 2016). Socrates explores his obligations as a citizen of the city of Athens, (“Apology: Theme Analysis,” 2016). This debate brings to the forefront the obligations that a citizen has to the notion of government and society if that citizen has received benefits from that governing society. Socrates’s dialogue explores many issues that plague modern society today. He explores the notion of fearing death and whether that fear of death should force an individual to commit crimes or to not follow their obligations, (“Apology: Theme Analysis,” 2016).
Plato’s Apology is an exquisite writing of debate of a concept that is still not resolved in modern times. Everyday many people commit crimes with the fear of death looming over them. People escape their obligations many times in the instance of when death is threatened or looming. Socrates’s debate with Crito has transcended the ages of time because it is so intellectually complex that it has still not been resolved and truly causes the mind to think and ponder what is the correct choice.
Works Cited
Apology: Theme Analysis. Novelguide. 2016 Web. 31 March 2016.
