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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. What, in Socrates' eyes, is a pointless solution to his crimes?

2. Who is the first philosopher mentioned in the work?

3. What does Socrates plead at the beginning of this dialogue?

4. What was often attributed to the gods?

5. Some citizens see Socrates as being _______________.

Short Essay Questions

1. The two men discuss the similarities and differences of what two words? What is Socrates' question?

2. What is the verdict in the case? What is Socrates' response?

3. What is Socrates' advice to allies and supporters? How does Socrates view the trial's outcome?

4. Who often approached Socrates to gain valuable information and insight? What did they want to learn?

5. Did Socrates only speak to the youth of Athens? If not, who else attended him?

6. For what does Socrates apologize in the beginning of the dialogue?

7. What is Euthyphro's reaction upon hearing the charges against Socrates? How does Euthyphro attempt to reassures him?

8. How does Socrates view his own brand of wisdom? What is it worth?

9. What is the setting for the First Dialogue? Why is it important?

10. Who is the young man referenced? Why does he take a journey? Who/What does he see? Why?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Many scholars believe that The Trial and Death of Socrates: Four Dialogues by Plato was not only compiled by Plato, but in fact written by the student of Socrates. Discuss the possibility of Plato creating the work. Why would he have done it? How might Plato have used the dialogues to insert his own views? Might some of the views of Socrates have been altered, changed completely or eradicated? How would anyone know? When was The Trial and Death of Socrates: Four Dialogues by Plato published? How could it be authenticated? By whom?

Essay Topic 2

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 3

At the beginning of the trial, Socrates makes an apology to the court. Why did Socrates apologize? Was it necessary? What was Socrates' view on addressing the court? What did the philosopher think about appealing to the court for mercy? What was Socrates' main goal during the trial? Was the goal accomplished? How might Socrates have acted differently? What could Socrates have done to gain acquittal or a less harsh sentence?

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