Socrates The Disciple Essay, Research Paper

The ironic scenario of Plato s Apology was that Socrates never apologized for his so-called improper behavior to the citizens and state of Athens. Throughout the entire trial, I never got the sense that he was apologetic for anything. This is reminiscent of stories from the bible about Jesus Christ. Both have similar teaching styles and as a result, had an immeasurable affect on the future of the entire world.

While reading, I noticed many differences and similarities between Jesus Christ and Socrates. This is evident as Socrates walks through the streets of Athens and stops periodically to speak to the crowds of people gathered around him. His messages are intended to inspire the youth and those individuals who listen but to the senate of the state of Athens, the messages seem to be threatening. The fear that runs through most of the senate regarding the knowledge of Socrates is incredible. Most feel intimated by his knowledge. I understand that this form of living within the city walls of Athens was new to all but I feel that the senate could have handled the situation a little more authority. It could have been a brutal trial but they allowed Socrates to stand amongst his fellow citizens and speak freely. This is definitely a form of intimidation. By listening they allowed Socrates to get his message across to everyone listening.

Ironically, the life that Socrates lived is really reminiscent of the Jesus life. As I said there are similarities and differences but both stories are really quite similar. I will explain my theories in both areas of similarities and differences. While reading the Apology, I constantly thought of the Holy Bible and the stories which I grew up to know and love. My father is an Anglican priest; therefore, I am a Christian. My faith in God is strong but I began to question myself as I continued to read the Apology. I now understand that the recorded texts written on behalf of Socrates and Jesus were stories. Interesting enough, they have now supposedly become such an intricate part of our history. The interesting part I realized was, no matter what or how either is read, they are stories! They are passed down. Everyone knows that stories passed down from generation to generation can be altered. Plato wrote stories as he recalled them happening while Socrates lived. Some were written many years after his death. As I read, I got the idea that Socrates said many things. Whether they are his words or the words of Plato that I may never know!

Both stories are similar. Jesus performed many incredible physical miracles whereas the only miracle Socrates performed was opening the minds of the citizens of Athens to think for themselves. Jesus died for all mankind but on the other hand, Socrates thought his death was only for the citizens of Athens. Little did he know that his death would have a lasting effect on the entire world. Who knows, maybe Socrates had an effect on the life of Jesus.

To be honest, my feelings towards the Holy Bible will remain the same but I am now looking beyond the writings within the greatest book ever written. I am beginning to think that the stories of Jesus are a glorified edition of the story of Socrates. Religion is a strong aspect of life and so is competition. Religion has played a very important role in history and all the different countries and denominations competing to be the best in story telling. Socrates said to think for yourself but Jesus essentially preached the same idea which the Athenians taught to its citizens. The basic structure of the idea was to create a centralized religion and abide by all rules that accompany it. Socrates said it best as he explains wisdom to the court; I do not think that I know what I do not know. (26) To me, real wisdom is having the knowledge to know that you are not wise enough to know everything. Socrates said that in the 5th century BC. That by itself is incredible.