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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. According to Socrates, what gives him the right to challenge society, in Apology?

2. At the end of Apology, what is Socrates' opinion on death?

3. How does society react to a philosopher who tells the truth, according to Socrates?

4. Why is Socrates heartened about the possibility of an afterlife?

5. Why is Socrates wiser than anyone he knows?

Short Essay Questions

1. According to Socrates, what reputation does he suffer from in Athens? How is this reputation related to Aristophanes' Clouds?

2. Who are the characters of Euthyphro? What is the setting?

3. Describe Socrates' account of his encounter with the oracle at Delphi and how it relates to his status as a wise man.

4. According to Socrates, why didn't he ever pursue politics?

5. What does the "voice" in Socrates' head tell Socrates at the end of Euthyphro? How does Socrates respond?

6. How does Socrates relate two aspects of his way of life to a defense of the charges against him?

7. What is the general attitude held by the citizens of Athens toward the characters of Euthyphro?

8. What is Socrates' first response to the charge that he has corrupted Athens' youth?

9. When he is found guilty, what sentence does Socrates suggest as punishment?

10. What first definition of piety is provided in Euthyphro? What does the character providing the definition cite as an example that proves his definition?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

There are varying theories about the logic behind Socrates' sometimes odd behavior at trial.

1) How can Socrates' response to Meletus' charge of atheism be considered an example of his weak or odd behavior at trial?

2) How can Socrates' suggestion as to his own punishment be considered an example of his weak or odd behavior at trial?

3) What are three possible theories for why Socrates offered a less than stellar defense in his trial?

Essay Topic 2

The characterization of Socrates is quite different in Plato's dialogues versus Aristophanes' The Clouds. Explain the nature of this difference, using specific examples from each text. This could include personality as well as philosophical beliefs.

Essay Topic 3

In the dialogue Crito, Crito and Socrates have a disagreement.

1) What is the nature of the disagreement between Crito and Socrates? How does Crito believe Socrates behaved in the trial?

2) What is Socrates response to Crito? Why does he refuse to go along with Crito's plan to escape from jail?

3) Discuss the emotional implications of Socrates' response to Crito. Is Socrates full of despair and resigned to death? Is he upbeat and looking forward to death?

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