Socrates Self Portrayal

Imagine a hostile courtroom filled with hundreds of jurors and politicians who only wish harm upon the defendant. A rowdy audience is present, with only a scattering of supporters of the defendant and in a definite minority. This is what Socrates faced when he was the defendant, refuting charges of corrupting the youth of Athens among other accusations. Normally, one would plead with the jury in order to free himself from their wrath, but not …

…of Athens. Using clever tactics such as contradictions as well as sarcasm, he makes a powerful speech in which he defies the traditions of Athens and relays the message that people may not be who they are actually thought to be. Certainly a philosophical provocation, Socrates wanted to succeed in influencing people with his thoughts. By doing so, he would be able to rest in peace and know that his life truly had a purpose.