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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. The Dialogue takes place after which event?

2. In which other dialogue does the reader learn about Socrates' personal philosophy?

3. In the eyes of the general public, which of the following is evil?

4. What is the setting for the Fourth Dialogue?

5. What part of Socrates' body was troubling him on that day?

Short Essay Questions

1. At this point, Socrates develops and expounds on a new theory. What is the theory and how is it explained?

2. What plea does Crito make to Socrates? What is the reasoning behind the plea?

3. What is Socrates' explanation of why suicide is evil?

4. What is Socrates' opinion on the fear of death in the eyes of a philosopher?

5. Embracing the theory of opposites, how might an incorruptible soul return to the known world?

6. What is Socrates' theory on the return of the soul to the known world?

7. What is Socrates final request to Crito?

8. What unusual physical issue did Socrates experience shortly before death? What conversation did it prompt?

9. When is Socrates scheduled to die?

10. What detailed question is asked of Socrates by Cebes regarding the soul?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Socrates makes it clear that in his philosophy there is no separation of morality and law. Explore Socrates' thoughts on the subject. Do you think that it was a popular theory at the time? Why did Socrates believe that? Who was the philosopher trying to convince? How did the charges against Socrates cross the line between morality and law? How could it be presented in court? How might such a case be proven and/or prosecuted in a modern court?

Essay Topic 2

Give your overall view of the dialogues. Do you find it to be a valuable source of Socrates' work? How does it compare to similar works by Plato, Nietzsche, and other noted philosophers? What might have been added to or subtracted from the Dialogues to better inform the reader? Which part was the most enlightening to you? Which of Socrates' theories was most interesting to you? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

Examine the reaction of Socrates when he was informed that he would be arrested and tried by the Athenian Council. What were the official charges? Who instigated the case? Why? Who investigated the claims made against Socrates? What did Socrates do to prepare for the trial? How did Socrates defend himself?

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