Prison of Socrates, Athens
Prison of Socrates, Athens Socrates belongs to the epoch immediately succeeding the age of Pericles, 469–399 B. C. Socrates was “the greatest spirit of the pagan world.” His contribution to the wisdom of mankind was greater than that of any other philosopher. He understood human nature, and he dealt with human nature in wisest fashion. His teachings can not fail to interest and instruct the seeker for truth in every age. He was a teacher. He taught without pay in portico, market-place and street, addressing all who chose to listen and addressing them in homely but pointed and effective style. Notwithstanding his noble life, in B. C. 399 an open accusation was brought against him, and he was charged before the Athenian magistrates with not believing in the gods. Being condemned on these charges he was sentenced to drink a cup of hemlock. To weeping and affectionate disciples who gathered about him he delivered an address at the last on the immortality of the soul. On the...