The following is a transcript of this video.
In this lecture we investigate the life of Socrates. In particular, we look at two monumental events in his life: his encounter with the oracle at Delphi which pronounced him to be the wisest of all men, and his trial and subsequent execution.
Further Resources
Good Places to Start One’s Study of Socrates
Philosophy 101 by Socrates: An Introduction to Philosophy via Plato’s Apology (2012) – Peter Kreeft
Before and after Socrates (1932) – Francis Cornford
Socrates (1975) – A.E Taylor (note that the hardcover/paperback edition is difficult to find but the kindle edition is available on amazon.com)
Socrates: A Life Examined (2007) – Luis Navia
Greek Philosophers: From Thales to Aristotle (1960) – W.K.C Guthrie
More Advanced Works on Socrates
Socrates (1972) – W.K.C Guthrie
Socrates: Ironist and Moral Philosopher (1991) – Gregory Vlastos
Plato’s Dialogues
In practically all of Plato’s dialogues Socrates is the main interlocutor. However, many scholars hold the view that it is only in Plato’s earlier dialogues that we have access to the historical Socrates and his ideas. While in Plato’s later dialogues it is believed that Plato uses Socrates as a mouthpiece for his own personal ideas. Below is a list of what are usually considered Plato’s early dialogues (and thus dialogues where one can find information regarding the historical Socrates).
Euthyphro
Apology
Crito
Charmides
Hippias Minor
Protagoras
Republic
