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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 does Socrates plead at the beginning of this dialogue?

2. Socrates insists on defending himself with what?

3. Why did the young man travel?

4. Socrates jokes about which of the following?

5. What is unusual about Socrates' references to God?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

3. In Socrates' mind, the concept of holiness is much like the chicken and the egg. Explain.

4. What is Socrates' reaction to the concept that he could live if only he would stop practicing his philosophy?

5. To whom does Socrates compare himself? What is the contrast?

6. Why did Socrates stand before the court alone?

7. How does Euthyphro reply to Socrates' question regarding the definition of piety?

8. How does Socrates argue against Meletus' claims that he is an atheist?

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

10. Why is Socrates distressed when Euthyphro excuses himself?

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

Compare and contrast the morality and practices of Meletus and his colleagues against the morality and practices of Socrates and his students and friends.

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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This section contains 650 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample