The Crito

In the Last Days of Socrates the dialogue "Crito" recounts Socrates last days before his

execution. Socrates had been accused of corrupting the youth and not worshipping the Gods

of the state. During his trial he denied all accusations and attempted to defend himself by

proving his innocence using reason . He was judged to be guilty and given a death sentence.

His long time friend Crito proposes to Socrates a plan to escape from his death sentence in

prison. Crito and Socrates argue the issue of escape with Socrates deciding on accepting his

sentence.

I feel that in light of his beliefs Socrates was ethically correct in refusing to escape

from prison. It was important to Socrates that he have good reasons not only to motivate but

also to justify his actions. Socrates was concerned that his actions not only be good, but be just

and noble as well. He accepts that the verdict must be carried out, even if it was not reached

correctly because by accepting the laws of Athens he has obligated himself to accept the

verdict even if it is unjust.

Crito argued in favor of escape. He is concerned with the reputations of both

Socrates and his associates. Crito also feel life in itself is of absolute value. He uses these

points in favor of his argument: Escape was easy to manage and would not put his friends in