The Composition of Plato's Apology

Originally published in 1933, this book examines the arguments surrounding the relation of Plato's Apology to the actual speech delivered by Socrates at his trial. Hackforth compares Plato's account to that of Xenophon, and examines Plato's possible philosophical or historical motives in the creation of his account of Socrates' defence. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in Platonic or Socratic philosophy.

Preface; 1. Introduction; 2. The Apology of Xenophon and the date of Plato's Apology; 3. The motive of Plato's Apology; 4. The meaning of the indictment; 5. The defence of the Platonic Socrates; 6. The second and third speeches and the total picture of Socrates; Additional notes; Index.