Ancient Athens

The Socratic dialogues take place in Athens, as does the Phaedo.

Socrates's prison cell

Socrates is in prison on the charge of corrupting the youth and it is there that he will die.

The Earth

Socrates believes that the earth is a series of spheres embedded within one another. The lower spheres contain the underworld and the true surface of the earth is above, and is where the great souls and gods live.

The Underworld

The underworld exists below the present one and contains departed souls that will usually be reincarnated after some time.

The Surface of the Earth

The surface of the earth is basically heaven, where the great souls of good men and philosophers live, never having to be reincarnated.

The Soul

Each person is identical with a soul and operates through the body, which is inferior to it in various respects.

The Body