2nd quiz

Plato: Crito

September 9, 2003

 

 

CORRECT ANSWERS

 

[The numbers in parentheses after the answers refer to the traditional marginal numbers – or Stephanus pages – that always used in the publications of Plato’s dialogues.]

 

 

1)  Why didn't Crito wake Socrates, when he arrived early to visit him?

He wanted Socrates "to have the pleasantest possible time" by continuing to sleep.  (43b)

 

2)  Could Socrates have escaped and gone into exile if he had wanted to?

Yes. Crito and his friends had it all arranged, if only Socrates would agree. (45b-c)

 

3)  Describe Socrates' mental state as he awaits his execution.

He is calm, even cheerful. (43b)

 

4)  What is Crito concerned about, as Socrates awaits his execution?

a)    He is concerned that he will be losing a friend.

b)   He is concerned about his reputation. He worries that people will think that he was unwilling to spend the money to help Socrates escape.

c)    both of the above (44b-c)

d)   none of the above

 

 

5)  What does Crito say about the power of public opinion?

That it is very powerful. (44d)

 

6)  What does Socrates say about the power of public opinion?

That it nothing to worry about, since ordinary people have very little capacity for doing either harm or good.  (44d)

 

7)  Is there any place where Socrates can go if he does escape?

Yes. Thessaly. Crito says he has friends there who will protect Socrates. (45c)

 

8)  In reply to Crito's worry about public opinion, what does Socrates say about whether the opinions of each person are equally valuable?

He says that the opinions of some people should be taken seriously and the opinions of others shouldn't be. (47a)

 

9)  What does Socrates mean by "living well" when he claims that "the really important things is not to live, but to live well"?

Living honorably and justly (48b)

 

10)  Socrates believes that it would be unjust for him to escape because to do so would be to break a just agreement with whom or what?

The Laws of Athens  (50c)

 

 

[Home | Department of Philosophy and Religion | NEU]