SOCRATES PARADOX

About the show

Socrates hears the oracle at the Temple of Delphi proclaim, “The wisest of all men is Socrates.” Seeking to understand what the oracle means, he goes in search of those considered wise. Yet he ultimately discovers that true wisdom lies not in possessing knowledge, but in recognizing and acknowledging one’s own ignorance. From then on, Socrates engages in philosophical conversations with people he encounters in the streets of Athens. By questioning their beliefs and exposing their errors and contradictions, he helps them recognize their own ignorance. Believing that he has been called by the gods to fulfill this mission, Socrates becomes a “gadfly to the conscience of humanity,” challenging the misguided values and desires of those around him in an effort to awaken and transform Athens. But the powerful turn against him. They put forward Meletus, a young poet, to formally accuse Socrates of refusing to acknowledge the gods recognized by the city and of corrupting the youth. Brought before an Athenian court, Socrates delivers his own defense, confronting both his longtime accusers and Meletus, the man who has brought the current charges against him. Before 500 jurors, he challenges the accusations and engages Meletus in a fierce examination, presenting a compelling defense. Yet despite his arguments, Socrates is found guilty and faces the death penalty. Even then, he refuses to plead for his life or compromise his beliefs.