Essays and Research Papers on Classic Greek Philosophy

This 5 page report discusses the evolution of Stoicism, its appeal to the ancient Greeks and Romans, and whether or not it has relevance in the contemporary world. Also briefly discussed are some ideas as to why the Greeks and Romans were 'susceptible' to the promises offered by early Christianity. Bibliography lists 4 sources.

A 3 page essay in which the writer describes the inferior intellect of Strepsiades and discusses Socrates' impatience with him. Also discussed are the significance and symbolism of the Clouds themselves with relevance to Socrates' attempts to teach Strepsiades. No other sources cited.

This 5 page report discusses Socrates 'Crito' and argues that his determination that a person's duty is to the state before his friends or family is not a logical conclusion or a meaningful decision to make. No additional sources cited.

This 5 page report discusses what the world would be like if we were more like Socrates. How would things differ? Would it be a better world? Why or why not? Bibliography lists 2 sources.

In 5 pages the author discusses the ways in which Socrates exemplifies virtue. 'While making reference to two of Plato's dialogues, the following question: 'The concept of virtue in the Platonic dialogues is very closely connected with the idea of 'excellence'. Keeping this in mind, and given what Socrates says about virtue in the dialogues, ...

This 6 page paper contemplates these two great philosophers and addresses the subjects of human knowledge, morality and God. Similarities and differences in ideas are highlighted. Bibliography lists 6 sources.

The philosopher is looked at through Plato's eyes in this 5 page analysis of the man's arguments and style. Plato's The Apology, The Crito, and Phaedo are the three dialogues which are discussed in terms of Socrates's contemplation of the human soul. Socrates is also compared with other historical figures. No other sources are used.

An 8 page factual essay that looks at the life of Socrates as revealed in the writings of his student, Plato -- and his Five Great Dialogues. The vagueness of where Socrates's ideas end and Plato's begin is discussed as well as the life and nature of Socrates. Bibliography lists 4 sources.

A 3 page paper that provides an overview of important points that are relative to the study of Socrates and can be derived from considering Plato's 'Meno', 'Protagoras' and 'Phaedo.' No additional sources cited.

A 5 page essay on three of Plato's Dialogues -- Crito, the Apology, and the Republic, -- analyzing the main thrust of Socrates' arguments in each. No additional sources cited.

A 10 page paper arguing that in the Apology, Socrates proves that all he was accused of was misguided wisdom brought about by the belief of his accusers that they were wise, rather than consider the possibility that they had no special claim on wisdom. In the course of that inquisition Socrates not only ...

A 5 page paper that considers Socrates arguments in response to the call for the death penalty. This paper contends that while Socrates used sophism as a means of supporting his arguments for what he believed he 'deserved' for his crimes, this only supported the philosophical premise of his argument.

In 4 pages, the writer attempts to answer this very question. It is believed that in Athenian terms, Socrates was in fact, guilty of impiety and corrupting the young but that the integrity of his accusers needs to be more closely examined. Even in light of this, it is brought out that the concept of ...

A 5 page, in-depth discussion of Plato's 'Apology'-- in which the writer explains Socrates' entire defense and its relevance to the socio-political climate of his day. Socrates' logic is analyzed in considerable detail. Bibliography lists 3 supporting sources.

A 5 page paper that reflects on the two different and seemingly contradictory profiles of Socrates that become evident in a reading of the Apology. Initially, Socrates seems almost self-effacing, but following the finding of his guilt, Socrates is noisily heroic and refuses to beg for mercy. These contradictory images are presented and ...

The trial and death of Socrates has been documented in the writings of his admirer and student, Plato. In Apology, Plato gives an account of the trial of Socrates before the Athenian court. Socrates has been charged with corrupting the youth, not believing in the Gods of the City and changing his religious ...

This 5 page report uses the 'Apology of Socrates' by Plato and Seneca's 'Letters from the Stoic' to discuss the question of how far humans can improve themselves through their own efforts. Bibliography lists 3 sources.

The philosophies of Socrates are presented by Plato in his rendition of the circumstances surrounding Socrates' trial and death. Socrates was given ample opportunity to escape the death sentence by escaping to Thessaly. He chooses to stay and to abide by the decision of the court, regardless that it was incorrect. He ...

In this well- reasoned essay of 4 pages, the writer analyzes Socrates' decision to remain in prison and await death-- even when Crito gave him the opportunity to flee. It is argued that Socrates' choice was a logical one in light of his own philosophy : civil obedience was of primary importance and even if ...

An 8 page analysis of three of Plato's Dialogues, showing how Plato actually diverted our attention from the truth under the guise of revealing it. Considerable emphasis is laid on Plato's methods, with examples from the three works. No additional sources cited.

An 8 page research paper in which the writer examines Socrates' indictment and his contempt towards his accusers. It is argued that Socrates might have received a lighter punishment had he not proposed ones that was so markedly sarcastic on his own. The 'true' grounds for the attack on Socrates are examined as are the ...

For most individuals, the questions of what came before this life and what will happen after death are the basis for the quest for truth. Many of the moral traditions of society incorporate the concept of a pre-existence and an afterlife as well as the belief that one is rewarded for a virtuous life ...

A 5 page research paper that compares Plato's concept of soul to the early Greek philosophers' concept of arche. The writer argues that Plato reconciled the conflicts of earlier approaches and expanded upon them. Bibliography lists 5 sources.

This 5 page research paper explores Plato's documentation of the trial and death of his teacher, Socrates, in four dialogues, Euthyphro, Apology, Crito and Phaedo. Specifically explored are the political background of the trial, specific charges levied against Socrates, his answer to these charges, and concludes with an evaluation of his guilt or ...

An 9 page paper in which the writer supports Plato's theory that the soul is not only immortal, but also can be either healthy or sick. For Plato, a healthy soul is one that is in harmony with the cosmos and strives for wisdom and knowledge. An unhealthy soul cannot recognize responsibilities to ...