Socrates Systematic Defense Essay - 2053 Words

Platos Apology begins with the opening statements of Socrates. The jurymens ears are still ringing with the sound of his accusers well-crafted arguments, and the stage is set for Socrates to defend himself. The reputable orator surprisingly begins his defense by stating that he is not going to â€Å"toy with words† but will argue his case with the first words that come to mind (17c). The tension becomes evident as Socrates systematic defense leads him to contradict his opening statements and undermine the ethos he sought to establish in the beginning of the dialog. Socrates accusers have warned the jurymen not to be deceived by the accomplished speaker. In response, Socrates says that he is â€Å"particularly surprised† by this lie and†¦show more content†¦This is all part of the ethos he is attempting to build to counteract the claims made against him. Now, it is clear that Socrates wishes to be seen as one who speaks randomly, but truthfully, using plain language. Before evidence is put forth proving that Socrates proceeds in a contradictory manner, with a well-thought-out defense, first notice that he had the opportunity to do so. As Socrates moves forward, he identifies his accusers as two separate parties. He calls them his first accusers and his later accusers. He speaks of the first accusers to the jurymen saying, â€Å"There have been many who have accused me to you for many years now† (18b). He states, â€Å"They got a hold of most of you from childhood, persuaded you and accused me quite falsely.† He then proceeds saying, â€Å"I must surely defend myself and attempt to uproot from your minds in so short a time the slander that has resided there so long† (19a). Knowing that the jurymen have been indoctrinated since a young age and recognizing that he only has a short time to â€Å"uproot† these lies, would he formulate a response to accomplish this or speak with the first words that come t o mind? 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