Giving up philosophy, exhorting the judges and declaring the truth to everyone whom Socrates meets is something he wouldn't sacrifice. He strongly stuck to his views, ideas and thoughts, which declared him as a strong independent person. Socrates believed that he should spend his whole life persuading people to give their first and greatest care to the improvement of an individuals soul. (XVII, 36) The author interpreted the soul as the building block of life; without believing in yourself as a person and sticking true to your views, you are simply no person at all. Throughout the Apology Socrates remains true to his way of life even though he is on trial for his life, and will probably be sentenced to death.
We know nothing of death according to Socrates, and therefore it is irrational to fear it. (XX, 38) Fearing the unknown is a human instinct, but as human beings we have no idea what death is like; therefore it's crazy to worry and stress on matters like such when enjoying life is the main priority. Socrates also states that his service to the God is more important than having the support of Athenians, money, or even a better lifestyle. The author does make it completely clear that Socrates never meant to impose his thoughts to anyone, but instead to simply enjoy the company of interesting people and the opportunity to learn from others' thoughts and conversations.
This passage really reached out and made me think about the meaning of life and being true to oneself. Once a person has found passion in life, as Socrates found in philosophy, it would be wrong to take into account the risk of life or death that such a passion might involve. A person should care more for being a good and upright person that being popular with the people. The novel tries to express that a person should care for the pursuit of knowledge over the pursuit of success and wealth. Without a doubt a perso
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