Death of Socrates

Socrates was tried and condemned to death by poison. He told the judges he believed in one God greater than theirs. His whole life was his defense. While awaiting the sacred ship's return from Delos (no executions during this voyage), friends bribed the jailer and arranged escape. Socrates refused: it would break the law. Crito wept, "Master, will you die innocent?" Socrates replied, "Would you rather I die guilty?" He taught his disciples about the immortality of the soul. Plato wrote down his words. When the poison came, Socrates drank it calmly, reminded Crito of a promised sacrifice, and died teaching virtue. Later, remorseful Athens recalled the sentence and erected his statue.