'The hour of departure has arrived, and we go our ways - I to die, and you to live. Which is better God only knows.'

Socrates is one of the great figures of Western history and the founding father of its philosophical tradition. In the Dialogues, by his pupil and fellow philosopher Plato, a fascinating portrait emerges of a man who spurned material wealth and believed above all in learning and inquiry. Apology, Crito and Phaedo recount Socrates' trial on charges of 'corrupting the youth' of Athens, his defiance of the court, and his last days in jail passed in discussion with friends. They form an excellent introduction to a courageous and captivating figure who paid with his life for the right to free thought.

This edition contains an introduction by Dr Emma Woolerton and the text of the acclaimed translation by classicist Benjamin Jowett.